History of Parkside Football Club (1897-2017) PDF

PARKSIDE FOOTBALL CLUB 1897/2017
H I S T O R Y O F T HE PA R K S I D E F O O T BA L L
CLUB
1897/2017
COMPILED BY VLADIMIR BERA
2017
ONCE A PARKSIDER, ALWAYS A PARKSIDER

Parkside Football Club 1897/2017
Foreword
Celebrating 120 years of the Parkside Football

Club, we cherish a beautiful heritage that has
been given to us.
The rich and long lasting existence of Parkside

has been crystallised by the joy, sorrow,
excitement, pain, love and mateship of countless
individuals, family members, club officials and
volunteers.
Vladimir Bera
2017
Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

HERB E. PASCARL Epitomized PARKSIDE FOOTBALL CLUB
At first glance, the history of the local football club may seem deceptively inapplicable to any kind of
publishing. However, local sporting clubs have a significant impact on both the individuals who are
actively involved in clubs and the wider community. At least, we as the custodians of this great club
are responsible for preserving memories for those who served Parkside Football club and kept the
community socially cohesive and productive.
Parkside Football Club has been privileged to have had the opportunity to be a huge part of Herb
Pascarls life.
Herb E. Pacarl loved Parkside Football Club and Parkside Football Club loves Herb.
Thus, there is no better way to define Parksides 120-year existence than by referring to Herb
Pascarls brief history of the football club.
Recorded and published in the best manner of the written oral history, this booklet reveals how the
values of the local football club are derived from a vibrant community and how these principles
extend beyond sport for sports sake, passing crucial, social and ethical values for generations to
come.
Pascarl selflessly served the football club and the local community by putting his heart and soul in
his volunteering work, organisation and the mobilisation of community resources. Pascarl leaves us
a legacy, demonstrating that life is best lived in service to others, with passion and integrity.

Oblinagil
Although this is the history of the Parkside Football Club from 1897, prior to that it was called
Oblinagil, which in Aboriginal meant near the park or beside the park.
The History of the Parkside Football Club 1897 - 1997 by Herbert E. Pascarl, 1997
Recognising the traditional owners of the land Maribyrnong Council emphasizes the fact that,
Aboriginal people have a deep and continuous connection to the place now called Victoria.
Aboriginal people have lived in the Maribyrnong River valley for at least 40,000 years and probably
far longer.
The City of Maribyrnong was built largely on the traditional lands of the Marin-balluk clan of the Woi
Wurrung language group, one of the five language groups of the Kulin Nation.
The Wurundjeri tribe of the Kulin Nation is recognised as the traditional custodians of this land. The
Kulin share religious beliefs, creation stories or oral history, and are affiliated with one of two groups
(moieties) named after creators or ancestors Bunjil (eaglehawk) and Waa (crow). The religious beliefs
formed the basis for social organisations and management of land and resources. It is estimated that
when Europeans first arrived some 200 years ago, Aboriginal nations across Victoria sustained more
than 60,000 people. These societies were characterised by a complex array of laws, languages,
traditions, spiritual beliefs and cultural ties.
European settlement in Maribyrnong in the 1830s had a massive impact on Aboriginal people, as it
did throughout Victoria and Australia, decimating communities, displacing families and disrupting
lives. Traditional lands were taken over by settlers and graziers and the local Aboriginal community

was subjected to introduced diseases, massacres and discriminatory government policies that still
have inter-generational effects today. And yet in spite of this, Aboriginal culture remains a dynamic
force in contemporary society, contributing to the diverse and thriving Western region of Melbourne,
including the City of Maribyrnong.
Aboriginal people began moving back into Kulin territories from missions and government reserves in
the early years of the twentieth century, particularly in the 1920s and 1930s.
They worked in the large industries that were established in Maribyrnong - Angliss and Pridhams
Meatworks, the munitions factories, Kinnears ropes and the railways - and were at the forefront of
the Aboriginal rights movement during the 1930s and 1940s led by William Cooper. His home in
Footscray was one of the early headquarters of the Australian Aborigines League. The Aboriginal
community has never been static, either prior to or after European contact. It has continued to adjust
and adapt to a changing environment.
http://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au
William Cooper
The animals at the Zoo are looked after. They have servants to care for them, Food is supplied for
them. Their homes are sure. Not so the blacks. We still feel unsafe in the hands of those who are
controlling and protecting us.
We still meet people who, with their sense of British superiority, look down upon us with disdain as
unworthy of consideration as Abos, a race of another color-whereas the two races should be on
the best of terms and give to each other full credit for the good qualities of which they are
possessed. ~ William Cooper
https://waynera.files.wordpress.com/2010/09/cooper.pdf

It is not hard to draw conclusions on how Australian Football Rules are similar to the indigenous
game. However, a curator of the Museum of Victoria discovered an image in 2007, which may be the
first picture of an Australian football game, being played by Indigenous people near modern-day
Mildura. Prior to this discovery there have been numerous written testimonies. Tony Wright, a
writer for the Age newspaper compiled interesting sources in this intriguing article.
The first observation of an Indigenous ball game was made in 1798 by David Collins, who had
arrived with the First Fleet as the colony's first deputy judge advocate. Then, in 1839, the first
Protector of Aborigines in the Port Phillip District, William Thomas, wrote: "The Marn-Grook or Ball is
a favourite game with the boys and men.
"A party assemble, one makes a ball of opossum skin or fur of another animal of a large size, working
it over and over with the sinews of a kangaroo tail, the ball is kicked up in the air, not thrown up by
hand as white boys do, nor kicked along the ground, there is general excitement who shall catch it,
the tall fellows stand the best chance, when the ball is caught it is kicked up in the air again by the
one who caught it, it is sent with great force and ascends as straight up and as high as when thrown
by hand, they will play the game for hours and fine exercise it is for adults or youths."
One of the most lucid recollections of the game was given by James Dawson, an early pastoralist and
a fine friend of Indigenous people in Western Victoria.
"One of the favourite games is football, in which 50, or as many as 100 players engage at a time,"
Dawson recalled in 1881, describing a sinew-bound possum-skin ball filled with pounded charcoal.
"The players are divided into two sides and ranged in opposing lines, which are always of a different
'class' white cockatoo against black cockatoo, quail against the snake, etc.
http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/australian-rules-roots-are-black-and-white-20150730-
gio3k8.html
In background, kids kicking the footy

Flemington Racecourse from the Footscray side of Salt Water River, Victoria
J. Ryan (1845)
Towards the end of the 19th century the Parkside Football Club was established.
In the words of Pascarl,
This team started about 1885 or 1886 and continued under that name until 1897 when a meeting
was held and the name was changed to Parkside Football Club and a President was elected whose
name was Dr Anderson and his residence was called Parkside in Moore Street, so this was actually
the start of Parksides name. This team, from 1885 to about 1903, played on a paddock called
Newells Paddock adjacent to the Footscray Park in Ballarat Road.
Dr Anderson
Newells Paddock was used as a holding yard for cattle and sheep from Newmarket Saleyards for
the Abattoir owned by William Angliss. The Stockbridge over the Maribyrnong River (east end of the
park) is a tangible reminder of the vast Angliss complex.

The Stockbridge was built in 1941 so that stock purchased from the Newmarket Saleyards could be
driven across the bridge to Newells paddock rather than along the public road. The materials for the
bridge came from a footbridge that had spanned the Yarra River at Punt Road from 1899 to 1938.
Newell's Paddock
Newells Paddock in the 1870s was a magnet for young Footscray boys who gathered mushrooms
and caught yabbies in the two large waterholes. Legend has it that that the boys also swam in the
waterholes. This practice was probably discontinued into the 1880s when the paddocks owner, local
contractor and businessman, David Newell, used it as a night soil dump. For a while at the end of the
nineteenth century, Newells Paddock was Parkside Football Clubs home ground.
https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Files/Maribyrnong_River_Heritage_Booklet.pdf
The first Secretary was W. Dunne or Bunne and (Chilla) Blake was Captain. Many great games were
played on this ground and were Premiers three years running in 1899, 1900 and 1901 defeating
North Kensington, North Melbourne Stars, and Carlton Blues in that order.
Some great players in those years were Buff Stead to University later called Carlton, Corker Groves to
Footscray and Essendon, Tommy Caines to Essendon and Albert Pascarl and Frank Trythall to
Footscray 2nd. From 1903 to 1909, three flags were won, defeating North Stars, Ascot Vale and
Mooney Valley. (H.Pascarl)

Footscray Independent wrote in 1908 that in a low scoring game Parkside prevailed over the
Imperials,
Last Saturday Imperials played the Parksides at Footscray, and the game resulted in a win for the
latter. Scores: Parksides, 2 goals, 9 behinds; Imperials 1 goal, 6 behinds. C. Pope was the best man on
the ground.
Footscray Independent, 13 Jun 1908, Page 3
Footscray v Williamstown
Punch (Melbourne) 20 August 1908, page 14

It was tragically symbolic that on the eve of the Great War, in May 1914, Footscray Advertiser briefly
reported that,
Parksides, minus eight of their regulars and playing a man short up to half time, put up a great fight
against Roy Street (South Melbourne), Scores-Roy Street 5.7, Parksides 3.5. Those deserving of
special mention were Moran, G. Murphy, Lucas, Hagg, Huntington, and Casserly.
Advertiser (Footscray) 2 May 1914, page 4
World War One had catastrophic consequences for Australian and Victorian society.
Every Victorian, man, woman or child knew someone at the war. A brother or son, a husband, a
work colleague, a boy from just down the street, and there was anxiety and concern for each one of
them. Casualty lists were regularly published in the newspapers and were also displayed in churches
or left hanging from the gates of railway stations. The war was everywhere. Increasingly, bereaved
women, mothers, wives and sisters, would be seen on the city streets, at church, on the trains and
trams, in mourning black, long black dresses, shawls and capes, letting everyone know of their loss.
http://anzaccentenary.vic.gov.au/history/victorias-contribution-wwi/
Australian First World War recruitment poster.
https://www.awm.gov.au/blog/2015/10
For Australia, as for many nations, the First World War remains the most costly conflict in terms of
deaths and casualties. From a population of fewer than five million, 416,809 men enlisted, of which
over 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.
http://rslnsw.org.au/commemoration/heritage/the-first-world-war

For Australia, as for many nations, the First World War remains the most costly conflict in terms of
deaths and casualties. From a population of fewer than five million, 416,809 men enlisted, of which
over 60,000 were killed and 156,000 wounded, gassed, or taken prisoner.
http://rslnsw.org.au/commemoration/heritage/the-first-world-war
During the 1916-1918 war years, only social games were played, mainly to keep the players and the
club active instead of disbanding altogether. (H.Pascarl)
During times of conflict, sport found its place equally on the battlefield and the home front. Cricket,
Rugby, Aussie Rules, Rowing, Surf Lifesaving carnivals all were familiar remnants of home, potent
and poignant reminders of familiar activities and the fun, mateship and joy of more carefree days.
The qualities of grit, endurance, fortitude, physical strength and aggression have been considered as
necessary on the sporting field as on the battlefield.
The onset of the First World War impacted upon the game of Australian football; whilst the Victoria
Football League (VFL) was still competitive throughout the years 1914 to 1918, it was not immune to
the adverse effects of war on a nation that was still developing politically, socially and economically.
Whilst the VFL considered suspending the season due to the onset of war, the game went ahead and
the season commenced on 24 April 1915, with nine teams competing. The 1915 Grand Final went to
Carlton, who smashed Collingwood by 33 points in front of a crowd of approximately thirty-nine
thousand spectators.
https://www.awm.gov.au/blog/2015/10/02/footy-front-afl-during-first-world-war/

Following the commencement of VFL in 1915, perhaps it was not a coincidence that Parkside
Football Club had the most active season in 1915 for the whole duration of the First World War.
In March 1915, the VFL voted on whether or not to suspend the 1915 season, but voted in favour of
playing by 13 votes to four. The season began on 24 April, the day before Australian troops landed at
Gallipoli. Attendances were poor throughout the year.
St Kilda changed their club colours because their traditional red, white and black colours were the
same as the German Empire. Their new colours of black, red and yellow were chosen as support to
Australia's ally Belgium, where a group of St Kilda players were serving.
The 1916 season was heavily affected by the war. Only four clubs, Carlton, Collingwood, Fitzroy and
Richmond, competed in the league. The other clubs withdrew from the competition, both out of
Australian patriotism and as a result of player shortage. Despite finishing the home and away season
in last place, Fitzroy won the Grand Final that year.
Both Geelong and South Melbourne returned to the league in 1917, while St Kilda and Essendon
made their comeback in 1918. Melbourne spent the longest time out of the league, missing three
seasons before re-joining the VFL in 1919.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_rules_football_during_the_World_Wars

This is how local media covered reduced competition in 1915.
Excerpts from local press, the Footscray Advertiser and Williamstown Chronicle,
FOOTBALL NOTES
The result of first semi-final played last Saturday:
Parkside 8 goals, 16 behinds (Jennings, Wattera (2), Weller (2), Friday (2), Hardy (2), Stew and
Griffith beat Central Juniors 1 goal, 6 behinds. (Tolitt, Dagon, Sutton, Martin, Mitchell and Smith.
Williamstown Chronicle, 28 Aug 1915, Page 3
*****
Parksides 2-5 (Connolly, Taylor, Weller, Jennings, Watters, and Pearce) beat Seasiders 2-3 (Holmes,
Grieves, Bridle, Harrison and Magor.
Todays matches are Parksides v Central Juniors, at Footscray Park.
Advertiser (Footscray, Vic.: 1914 - 1918) Sat 3 July 1915, Page 4
*****
Williamstown and Footscray District Junior Football Association
All matches for last Saturday were postponed on account of the bad state of the grounds.
Seasiders have their strongest team in today and are confident of victory. Parksides tried four new
players against the Rovers: Bertram, Pierce, Parr, Taylor and all justified their inclusion.
Fixtures for today are:
Glenwoods v Seasiders, at Seddon;
Central Juniors v Parkrides, at North Williamstown;
Sunshine v Footscray Rovers, at Sunshine
Advertiser, 29 May 1915, Page 4

FOOTBALL NOTES
DISTRICT JUNIOR ASSOCIATION
The final of this Association will take place today on the Williamstown Football Ground between the
Seasiders and the Central Juniors (minor premiers). Both of these teams. belong to Williamstown. In
the presence of about 250 spectators the Seaeiders (Williamstown) gave battle to the Parksides
(Footscray) on the Williamstown ground last Saturday, in the final match of the Junior Association.
After a well-fought and highly interesting game the Williamstown team eventually ran out winners
by 3 points, the scores being:
Seasiders 7 goals, 11 behinds; Parksides 7 goals and 8 behinds.
For the Seasiders: Greives, Harrison, Anderson, Ray, Weatherhead, Allen, Smith, Ferrel, and Brett
deserve mention for their sterling play. The Parksides best men were Stokes, Taylor, Connoly, Hubble,
Pearce and Neckar. Hobson umpired a fast game well.
Williamstown Chronicle, 11 Sep 1915, Page 3
Due to the specific circumstances, Parkside Football Club experienced turbulent periods in its history
while was looking for a permanent home ground.
It seems inconceivable that Footscray Park, which is today classified as a heritage place on the
Victorian Heritage Register for its aesthetic, horticultural and social significance to the State of
Victoria, was once the municipal garbage tip.

Once the haunt of aborigines who fished for eels along a minor creek, this area of swamp land
below the Footscray Park was filled with over 500.000 of cubic yards of household refuse when it was
the site of the municipal garbage tip 35 years ago and later when hundreds of unemployed men were
given work during the depression of 1929 1931 converting the big area into playing fields.
Several full size sports ground had resulted-including one used by the Footscray Rugby Union Football
Club. In the distance (left) are attractive water lily ponds. The area of the Footscray Park and
incorporated playing fields, 72 acres is the largest of the citys park. A Feature is the massing of trees
of all description the botanical collection at this reservation is one of the finest in Australia and
includes species found in few other public gardens.
Footscray First 100 Years: The Story Of Great Australian City, The Advertiser in association with
Footscray City Council, 1960
Construction and landscaping of Footscray Park, 1920

Footscray's first 100 years : the story of a great Australian city (1960)
As stated by Pascarl,
1920 to 1927 (I started with Parkside Football Club in 1921 running the boundary), Parkside Football
Club played in Metropolitan competitions winning three premierships defeating South Melbourne in
1921, Port Melbourne in 1924 and St. Kilda in 1927. I think the Coach at that time was Corker Groves
and Jack Jones was Captain.
In 1926 or 1927, six Parkside players played in a combined side against a combined side from YMCA.
J. Jones, Charlie Howell, Tom Sutherland, N. Vickers, C. Sheldrake and G. Russell were the players. The
scores were 19-19-133 to YMCAs 10-20-80 - Tom Sutherland Best on Ground (6 Goals).
I dont know what year the Club left Newells Paddock ground but about 1923 or 1924, the Club was
playing on the ground we now use - Henry Turner Reserve.
We played there for a few years and then had to shift from that ground (all the ammunition flats
were being levelled and filled in and eventually became two grounds, our present ground and over
the other side of Farnsworth by the Technical Old Boys Ground.
Parksides claimed a walk over from Librarians. Parks play Dow Stars at Albert Park this afternoon.
Record, Sat 24 June, 1922, page 2

Parkside Football Club 1922
The Magpie in the Moonlight
By John Shaw Neilson
Gold he has poured out and silver on this tent of mine:
He leaves in the last of moonlight his song without wine
Sable and snow-white the bird is, and he would define
Love in the leaves to the moon in his song without wine.

Old is the love in his music, and cool to the ear:
His joy is width of a sorrow, the weigh of a tear.
He fails not: the many loud singers he will outshine:
Death he will take into Love in his song without wine.
Parkside Football Club - Premiers 1923

Back Row: J. Gardiner, ? Ritchie, J. Harwood, H. Jolly, J. Johson, J. Bird
2nd Row: ? Swingler, R. Day, F. Kenny, A. Edwards, T. Jones, V. Stockman, F. Trewartha, J. Winter, E.
Neal
3rd Row: D. Johnstone (Coach), W. OShanassy, C. Huntigdon, A. Mather (Captain), C. Gathercole

(Secretary), G. Edmunds (V. Captain), T. Bird, F. Francis, Mr J. Johnson (President)
Front Row: S. Bleaseby, F. Johnson, T. Wignell
Arthur Sykes
Best Association Half Back
Arthur Sykes, of Williamstown, is chosen as the best half back in the Association, though it was
difficult to decide between him and Ted Thomas of Oakleigh, for the honor. Sykes is brilliant in the
air, is full of dash and is very consistent. He is a good kick and greatly daring.
Sykes, a Tasmanian, learnt his football at Trinity Hill School Hobart.
He early transferred to Victoria, and played as a junior with the Parksides with Percy Bentleigh, Tom
O'Halloran and Don Harris, all of Richmond.
He joined Williamstown in 1925, and has played regularly since. He has represented the Association
against Gippsland twice.
He weighs 12.0 and is 5ft. 11in. tall. Sykes considers that the coaching of Jack O'Brien has improved
his game considerably.
At the moment he is a magneto the scouts of several League teams, but is very happy at
Williamstown.
Sporting Globe (Melbourne), 20 Aug 1930, Page 9

As we understand it from a brief note which was published in Independent - Footscray in 1922, the
Footscray Council discussed Parksides application for use of ground at bottom of Footscray Hill, it
remains unclear when the Club got permission to move to the new ground,
the Parkside Football Club, applying for use of ground at bottom of Footscray Hill. Held over, From
Mr. Turner, hon. secretary Footscray Traders, asking for use of, cricket wicket, Western Reserve, on -
March 25 for a, match between Mr. Mitchells eleven of old identities of the city and the Traders. No
objection.
Footscray Independent, 18 February 1922
Herb Pascarls memories and anecdotes represent a significant chapter in the history of the Parkside
Football Club. His love for the club stayed with him all his life.
Pascarl remembers how, From that ground (Schintler reserve ) we moved to a ground over the
Napier Street Bridge, I think called Schintler reserve. (I believe it is now used for soccer).
Schintler Reserve
After a few years there, Parkside shifted back to what we now know as the Lily Pond area of the
Footscray Park, and since then have always played in Footscray Park area except later on after our

present pavilion was flooded and we shifted to Hobson Reserve ground in Churchill Avenue and
Curbin Street, Braybrook.
It was when the Club shifted back to the Lily Pond area that the Club had their first use of club rooms
which we share with Footscray Rugby Club. (H.Pascarl)
Constructional work at the Henry Turner Memorial Reserve (1946)
1944 [Collins Melbourne and suburban street directory]

Marvellous Footscray - The First Half of the 20th Century
Des Carrolls interview with Herb Pascarl for the local Footscray Mail in 1997, reaffirms the notion
that from little things big things grow.
Pascarl vividly remembers how he,
got together with four other men towards the end of 1930, (and how) he could not have conceived
their discussion would lead to the establishment of the biggest football league in Australia.
The result of their meeting in a barbers shop in Nicholson Street, Footscray, led to the establishment
in 1931 of the eight-team Footscray District Football League (FDFL).

The concept of a competition, centred on the hub of the western suburbs, followed by Mr Pascarls
visit to barber Henry Turner during the 1930 season of a decentralised minor metropolitan league,
which were abundant.
Herb E. Pascarl
As the barber was cutting Mr Pascarls hair he asked: Where are you playing this week? To which
came the reply:
Bloody Kew and we are all sick of it.
Next time around, Henry told me he was having a meeting that night with three other gentlemen and
asked me if I would like to come along.
The gentlemen there where, Ernie Shepherd later mayor of Footscray, Harry Kemp and Freddie
Reid, sports master at Footscray Technical College.
We decided we would try to establish a Footscray-based football competition and each of us was
allocated a job. My job was trying to get teams from pubs and clubs in the Footscray district. We
originally got eight teams for 1931 season.
The enthusiasm for those attached to Parkside Football (Club) was such that it had so many players it
fielded Parkside A and Parkside B"
Mr Pascarls time with Parkside Football Club began when, at 14, he ran the boundary in 1921. He
started playing at 15 in 1922 and remained with Parkside until his retirement around 1949.
Footscray Mail, September 10, 1997

Kevin Hillier writes in his book, History of the Western Region Football League /Footscray District
Football League that,
The league started in 1931 in inner Footscray with only eight clubs, a far cry from the thirty-seven
that now make up the competition.
The geographic boundaries of the League hardly went beyond a drop kick from the middle of Barkly
Street. Today, of course, those boundaries extend to Wyndhamvale, St. Albans, Coburg, Brunswick
and Port Melbourne.
The original teams in the Footscray District Junior League of 1931 were:
Footscray Technical Old Boys
St. Johns Church of England
Braybrook
Parkside A
Parkside B

Footscray Scouts
Yarraville CYMS
Bayview Road Methodists

Footscray had a reputation as a pretty tough area. It was populated by a lot of Italian immigrants
and there was a fair amount of ethnic tension created after the Depression. The combination of the
unemployment levels and the use of foreigners in a lot of the labour intensive work created an
interesting chemistry in the area.
The Footscray Football Club had entered the VFL in 1925, and one of the original objectives of the
newly formed Footscray District Junior Football League (FDJFL) was to provide a basis for recruitment
for the Bulldogs in the VFL. Many of us wish that were still the case today.
Parkside had two teams in the debut season of the competition because there were only seven
teams. Parkside had more than fifty registered players and with the scenario that only eighteen could
play, it opted to make up the second side to even out the competition.
The purists will love the fact that the Grand Final in the first year of the competition was between
Parkside and Braybrook; two clubs which have provided many league players, the two clubs whose
own history predates the competition. Parkside won by thirty-eight points. [Parkside 11.19.85
7.5.47 Braybrook]
The top four that year were: Parkside A, Braybrook, Parkside B, Footscray Scouts.
Hillier, Kevin 2007, History of the WRFL/FDFL, Common Ground, Altona, Vic
Ethel Spowers (18901947)


Parkside Football Club win an historic first FDJFL premiership.
Parkside Brilliant in Premiership Win
A brilliant exhibition of football in the first three-quarters won the premiership of the district junior
league for Parkside "A" at Yarraville on Saturday. Braybrook, who had not played for three weeks,
were slow, and some of their men were below form: From the start, Parkside swept forward. After
two singles, Dell marked high, and punted first sixer. The Parkside forwards were too good in the air,
and their rucks were very strong.
Peart got second goal and W. Herring third, after receiving from Sainsbury. It was all Parkside.
Sainsbury marked grandly twice. Herring kicked the next goal out of, the ruck, Braybrook were
seldom past the centre line, where the duels were in favour, of Parkside. Although a little over
anxious, the Parkside backs were holding their opponents well. A quick thrust by Braybrook, and a
single was obtained, followed' by a goal from Munro. With Wishart and W. Herring in the van;
Parkside were playing like a machine. Two more goals were added, Braybrook were falling astern,
and a great effort produced two goals. A mark in the centre by Stedman sent Parkside forward again.
Wishart marked the kick-off twice in succession, flying over the packs. Steedman marked the next.
Parkside were forcing all the time. Greig, the Braybrook full-back, was defending grandly and saved
many dangerous moves. At half-time Parkside led, 8.10, to 3:3. They had a sound grip off the game.
Braybrook livened up, but could not pace it with the dashing Parksiders, whose first and second rucks
held the advantage. Playing finely, Parkside pressed forward, and several minors were kicked. A.
Sharp and Peart were tenacious rovers, who battled through till they got the ball away.
The leaders were winning well on one wing and in the centre, and holding the other flank Braybrook
showed great improvement in the last term, registering 3.2 for the quarter. Parksides best were:
Wishart, Peart, W. Herring, Conabere, Steedman, Rogers, A. Sharp and L. Herring.
Parkaide 11.19(85) d. Braybrook 7.5(47)
Goal kickers for Parkside: W. Herring 4, Wishart 2, Peart 2, OShannassy 1, Pascarrl 1 and Dell 1.
Footscray Advertiser, September 1931:

This is how a heartbroken Little Mark describes the first and historic FDFL/WRFL Grand Final in his
article for Sunshine Advocate in 1931:
Braybrooks hopes of adding another premiership to their list were rudely shattered, when on
Saturday last after an inglorious display, they went down to Parkside A. by a margin of 34 points.
With vivid recollections of the previous match played between the same teams a fortnight previously
a large crowd gathered at the Yarraville Football Ground in hopes that another such display of
brilliant football would be witnessed: but to put it mildly, supporters were amazed with the showing
put up by the locals, who were completely outclassed, not one man on the side producing anything
like form.
Winning the toss Parkside took advantage of a slight breeze and was immediately away bringing up
the first goal. Showing plenty of dash and determination the Black and Whites were continually
attacking and were playing all over Braybrook, whose backs were continually making the mistake of
hanging on to the ball instead of getting in a goal kick. Parkside had added 4 goals before Braybrook
broke past the center and gave Munto opportunity to register the first goal. The scores at the quarter
time were: Parkside 4-8 Braybrook 1-1.
Still hanging behind their opponents Braybrook were utterly at sea, being beaten in almost every
position on the ground.
The back lines were being badly smashed the first time for the season and opposing forwards
were doing almost as they liked.
When half-time arrived the board read Parkside A, 11-17: Braybrook 5-6
Braybrook endeavouring to stage comeback was first away, and for a while showed glimpses of their
true form during which they increased their score by two goals. Although the quarter proved in
favour of the locals who added 2 goals and 2 behinds to 2 goals, on the day they were badly beaten
and were unable to produce anything like their true form.
The final scores were: Parkside A. 11-19, 85 pts: Braybrook 7-5, 47 pts.

The winners were a very even side. Those outstanding being: Steadman, Jones, Dell, Herring and
Peart.
Sunshine Advocate (Vic. : 1924 - 1954), Friday 11 September 1931, page 4
Parkside Football Club 1931 Premiers
Back Row: W. Grekan, J. McPherson, J. Sharp, L. Herring, D. Rogers, E. Yewers, W.

OShannessy, J. Fisher, H. Hodson,
3rd Row: J. Ashley, C. Purchase, W. Herring, T. Laffan, J. Wishart, C. Shedrake, J. Sainsbury,

F. Cook, E. Worithington, M. Findlay, F. Jones
2nd Row: F. Jenkins, J. Gardiner (V. President), H. Hodson (Secretary), J. Jones (Captain), N.
Griffin (President), C. Stedman, J. Grubb, T. Sutherland, E. Shepherd (Coach)
Front Row: A. Sharp, G. Peart, E. Dell, H. Pascarl, B. Sharp, R. Conabere


FOOTBALL CLUB WITH A HISTORY
Parkside Successful Revival Bring Premiership and "The Advertiser" Shield.
(By "Chaspur)
THE initial season of the Footscray District Junior Football League, formed for the dual purpose of
providing healthy recreation without having to travel to other suburbs and as a recruiting ground for
the Footscray senior side, has proved an unqualified success.
QEVERAL of the players have produced form which, with a little experience in senior football, would
qualify them for any League side, and a series of keenly contested games points to the newly-formed
body wielding a big influence in local football for many years to come.
The winning of the first premiership by Parkside will turn back the years for many old-time football
enthusiasts. The deeds of this team, which has become famous in local junior football, date back to
the 'nineties.
First Players May Be Grandfathers Now
In the year 1897, a team known as Oblina was disbanded. Re-formed under the presidentship of the
late Dr Anderson the team was named after the medico's residence, and the Parkside football team
was born. Today, 34 years later, the team has again won the premiership.
The first secretary was "Bill" Bunn and Charlie ("Chilla") Blake was elected captain. Lynch-street and
Stirling-street, then a large, open paddock, adjacent to the present Footscray Park, was the area
where many hard-fought battles were staged.
The first footy ground where many hard-fought battles were staged.

From 1899 to, 1901, three years in succession, Parkside were premiers, the competition
being discontinued the following year. Some members of this combination were "Bair"
Stead, who Inter played with University, which afterwards became Carlton, "Corker" Groves,
who appeared with Footscray and Essendon, Tommy Cairns, McBride, Jimmie Pascarl and
W. Trythall, all fine footballers.
Roy Cotton, one of the most familiar old-time footballers to Footscrayites, played with
Monas in the same competition.
Success at Cricket
The next record of a Parkside team was at the beginning of the war, when there was a
cricket and football team. The cricketers carried off the premiership in the 1914-15 season.
The premiership of the Williamstown and Footscray District Association was the 1915
objective. After winning its way to the four, and a good victory in the semi-final, the team
went under by two points to Seasiders, of Williamstown, in the play off. Frank Davidson and
Bill Considine, who latter played with Footscray and North Melbourne respectively,
appeared with the team that year. Tom Jennings also played senior footballs going to the St.
Kilda League team. Jack Connelly, now well known in local tennis and Otto Necker, who later
won fame as a pedestrian, were star performers.
Several of the team were brilliant runners, Otto Necker taking third place in the Stawell Gift,
and Will Stewart, Les Taylor, Jack Connelly and others winning many finals at Gurney's.
Senior Players Turned Out
Some of the players in other teams in the competition, who later rose to senior rank, were
Jack O'Brien, Johnny Martin, Wally Fraser and George Thompson (Footscray), Bob Rell
(Essendon and Yarraville), J. Walker (Essendon), "Chook" Far McAuliffe and Krygger
(Williamstown).
Owing to the intervention of the war and its call on players, the club disbanded in 1916.
After the war, the team was re-organised, matches being played all over the metropolitan
area. The 1922 team was undefeated. In 1923 a competition was entered for the first time
since the tear period. Under the coachship of Doug Johnstone, who later played full-back for

Footscray, and captained by A. Mathers, now with Williamstown, the team went, trough
unbeaten to the premiership.
Others in this team to win selection in senior sides were Tom Jones with Footscray,
Pompo Kenny, with Williamstown, G. Edments, with Yarraville and Gordon Wishart, with
Port Melbourne.
The following year the competition was divided into two sections, the two top teams in each
comprising the four. Parkside carried off one section, but went down in the final to Try Boys,
of Prahran, winners of the other section:
Winning a place in the four again in 1925, defeat by one point in the semi-final brought that
year to a close.
A Team of Champions
The greatest combination placed in the field by Parkside after the war was the 1926 side.
Not a match was lost. The football reached in a very high standard, and many good teams
went down before their brilliance. Of the eighteen, no fewer than eleven were promoted to
senior company.
These were Wally OBrien, the Footscray wingman: Bernie OBrien, now at Carlton: Percy
Ellis, the Fitzroy back man; Roy Williams, who went from Footscray to Camberwell.
Tom Sutherland, the tall half-forward tried with Footscray last year; Bert Sharp, with
Footscray last year; C. Harry now at Port Melbourne; N. Vickers, who was at Williamstown
and Port Melbourne; A. White, Yarraville, and W. Fisher and J. Summers, now playing in the
Bendigo League. This smart team gave many delightful displays and had an easy victory in
the final.
West Melbourne downed Parkside In the 1927 final after a terrific struggle. The three years
following, 1928-29-30, a team was not placed in the field.
A Successful Revival
With the formation of the Footscray Junior League this season, tin old name was again
revived. Several former players were available, and with a number of younger men making
their first appearance in the colors, a formidable team took the field. Two players with years

of junior experienceJack Jones any Cyril Steedmanwere appointee captain and vice-
captain, and their leadership and fighting spirit inspired their team-mates. W. O'Shannessy,
the elusive half-forward, the only member of this year's teas who was also in the 1923 and
1926 champion eighteens.
The great all-round ability show this year was demonstrated by the big margins in their
favour in most of the games. They have excelled in a phases of the game, the system, high
marking and dashing ground work being far ahead of that usually show by a junior team.
Some remarkable scores have been put up, the highest being 186 points to 6 against
C.Y.M.S. on the latters ground. Parkside and Braybrook met in the final match, which
Parkside won by 38 points. With the premiership goes a pennant and the right to hold "The
Advertise shield for 12 months.
May Play With Footscray
Consistently good form was shown by several young players, among whom Dell (forward),
Conabere (wing), Wishart (follower); W. Herring (Follower and forward), L. Herring (centre),
Peart (rover) and Rogers (Half-back) are capable of developing into valuable senior men.
A presentation night, in the form of a smoke night, is to be held, when the pennant, shield
and individual trophies will be awarded. It is intended to again enter the team in the Junior
League next year.
Footscray Advertiser, October 3, 1931

Hopkins Street, Footscray, 1924
Prior to entering the Footscray District Football League in 1932, Parksides colours were red, white
and blue the same as Footscray Football Club, and then for some reason, Riverside Football Club
were given red, white and blue and so Parkside colours changed to black and white vertical stripes
and that has been their colours ever since.
In 1931, Parkside Football Club had two teams, A and B, because in the season so Parkside entered
Parkside B to make up eight teams. (H. Pascarl)
Parkside Football Club in Red, Blue and White jumpers

Hillier restates this internal and rather bizarre Parksides affairs,
The following season (1932) saw the second Parkside team change its name to Riverside, at the
request of the Parkside vice president Harry Kemp. He asked Parkside to clear enough players to form
the new club, and the Riverside Football Club was born.
Much to the chagrin of those at Parkside, Riverside won the flag that year. Riverside also adopted the
traditional Parkside colours of red, white and blue, while Parkside changed to the black and white
vertical stripes which the players still wear today. That same year St. Johns changed to Paisley;
Bayview Road and Braybrook retired from the competition; and into the comp came Yarraville
Rovers, West Footscray, Seddon and the Dark Blues, a combination from St. Monicas and St. Johns
West Footscray.
The dominance of the Parkside Football Club continued into 1933 with another flag; that was after
being admitted to the Victorian Sub-Districts League. The clubs inability to secure an enclosed
ground meant it had to come back to the FDJFL. It won the flag, beating Riverside in a season that
saw Altona and North, as well as Newells, join the competition.
In the 1932 grand final, Riverside beat Parkside. The score was:
Riverside 11.15.81 d Parkside 10.12.72

A version of this article written on The Sporting Globe first appeared on Footscray Advertiser,
October 3, 1931.
Footscray Watch Juniors Parkside Club Gain Local Honors
The Initial season of the Footscray District Junior Football League formed for the dual purpose of
providing healthy recreation without players having to travel to other suburbs, and as a recruiting
ground for the Footscray senior side, has proved an unqualified success.
SEVERAL of the players have produced the form which, with a little experience n senior football,
would qualify them or any League team, and a series of keenly-contested games points to the newly-
formed body wielding a big influence in Footscray football for many years to come.
The junior league was sponsored by the Footscray League Club, which drew up the constitution and
made its rooms available for meetings. Eight teams took the field this year, and it is intended to
increase the number next season. The competition was ably conducted.
The winning of the first premiership by the Parkside team makes football history. The deeds of this
team, which has become famous in Footscray junior football date back to the nineties.
In 1897 the team was formed under the presidentship of the late Dr Anderson, and named after his
residence - Parkside. The ground was the area at the top of Scotchmans Hill, well known to

Melbourne Cup enthusiasts. From 1899 to 1901, three years in succession, Parkside were premiers,
the competition being discontinued the following year.
Some players in this side were Baff Stead, who later went to University, which team afterwards
became Carlton; Corker Groves, who appeared with Footscray and Essendon; Tommy Cairns,
Jimmie Pascarl, McBride and W. Trythall, all fine footballers. Roy Cotton, one of the greatest
footballers produced in the district, played in the same competition.
The next record of a Parkside team was at the beginning of the war. The premiership of the
Williamstown and Footscray District Association was the 1915 objective, the team going down by
two points to Seasiders, of Williamstown, in the final. Frank Davidson and Rill Considine, who later
played with Footscray and North Melbourne respectively, appeared that year. Tom Jennings also
played senior football, going to the St. Kilda League team. Peachey Laidlaw and Billy Russ, who
both gave Footscray great service, were also Parksiders about this time.
The intervention of the war caused the team to disband in 1916.
Reorganised After War, 1922 Team Undefeated
After the war the team was reorganised, the 1922 team being undefeated. The following year a
competition was entered. The side was coached by Doug Johnstone, who later played full-back for
Footscray, and captained by A. Mathers, now with Williamstown. They went through undefeated to
the premiership. Others in this team to win selection in senior sides were Tom Jones with Footscray,
Pompo Kenny with Williamstown, G. Edments with Yarraville and G. Wishart with Port Melbourne.
The next year, 1924, the competition was divided into two sections. Parkside carried off one section,
but went under to the winners of the other section. Winning a place in the four again in 1925, they
were defeated by one point in the semi-final. The greatest combination placed in the field by Parkside
after the war was that of 1926.
Not a match was lost.
The football reached a high standard, and many good teams went down to them. Of the eighteen, no
fewer than eleven were promoted to the senior company.
These were Wally OBrien, the Footscray wingman; Bernie OBrien, of Carlton (brothers of Jack, of
Essendon, Footscray and Williamstown fame, and Tom, who played on the wing for Port Melbourne
shortly after the war); Percy Ellis, the Fitzroy back, Roy Williams, Footscray and Camberwell, Tom
Sutherland and Bert Sharp, Footscray; N. Vickers, Williamstown and Port Melbourne; A. White,
Yarraville; and W. Fisher and J. Summers, now playing in the Bendigo League.
This smart team gave many fine displays and had an easy win in the final. West Melbourne downed
Parkside in the1927 final.
During 1928-29-30 a team was not placed in the field

With the formation of the Footscray Junior League this year the old name was again revived. Several
old players and some younger new men blended into a formidable side. The great all-round ability of
this team is shown by the big margins in their favour in most games.
Some remarkable scores have been put up, the highest being 186 points to six against C.Y.M.S.
Excelling in all phases of the game, the system, high marking and dashing ground work placed the
team far above the standard usually shown by a junior team.
Parkside and Braybrook met in the final, the former winning by 38 points. With the premiership go
the Footscray Advertiser Shield and a pennant given by Cr. G. Farnsworth, the Footscray League
delegate. The consistently good form was shown by some young players, among whom Dell,
Conabere, Wishart, L. and W. Herring, Pascarl, Peart and Rogers may develop, into valuable senior
players.
Sporting Globe (Melbourne, Vic. : 1922 - 1954) Sat 24 Oct 1931 Page 6-7

The club celebrated the third consecutive grand final and second premiership flag in September
1933. It was sweet revenge for Parkside after losing the grand final against the Riverside in the
previous year. Cynics would call it master versus the apprentice.
Junior League Honors To Parksides
Weight Overwhelms Riversides
On Saturday last the grand final of the Junior League was played at Werribee, where a large crowd
was treated to a fast game. Weight was used unsparingly and this factor eventually won the day for
the solid Parkside combination. Much bigger in build, and trained to perfection, they swept the
Riversides off their feet in the closing stages to win comfortably.
The Riversides, however, were far from a disgraced, their fast and spectacular play during the second
quarter and the brilliant effort in the third quarter, left the opposition stranded. During this burst
seven goals were added to the Parksides' solitary one.
Final scores were: Parkside, 19-22 (136) to Riverside, 10-10 (70)
Goalkickers: Parkside - Murphy, 8, McKinnon 4, Worthington 2, J. E Sharp, Eason, A. Sharp, Herring,

R. Sainsbury.
Best players: Murphy, McKinnon, J. Sharp, Kimpton, L Findlay, Bentley, Coward, R. Sainsbury
Parksides will leave the social club today at 12.15 p.m. for a weekend holiday at Kyneton.
The Mail, September 30, 1933

Werribee Shire Banner, Thursday 21/28 September 1933, p5
FOTSCRAY DISTRICT LEAGUE
PREMIERSHIP TO PARKSIDE
Weight was not spared, fearless dashes were frequent, and, generally, there was no lack of action in
the grand final match played at Chirnside Park last Saturday between the Parkside and Riverside
teams to decide the premiership of the Footscray Junior League.
Parkside, by kicking 19 goals 22 behinds, in reply to which Riverside scored 10 goals 10 behinds, came
out victorious.
Goal kickers - Parkside : Murphy (8), MKinnon (4), Worthington (2), J. Sharp, A. Sharp, Herring and A.
Tainsbury.
Riverside : Bleazby (4), Menzies (2), Woodman (2), Linton and Spargo
Werribee Shire Banner, Thursday 21/28 September 1933, p5
J. Sainsbury was the Competition Best and Fairest winner for 1933 Season

Parkside Football Club - 1933 Premiers
Back Row: H. Hodson, J. Grubb, M. Findlay, W. Herring, W. Crehon, E. Worthington, F. Coward, J.

Sharp, P. Sansbury, F. Cook
Third Row: T. Sutherland, N. Otto, C. Gration, W. Doolan (Coach), M. Houson, D. Firth, T. Murphy, R.
Ward
Second Row: R. Hodson, H. Pascarl, J. Gordiner, J. Sharp (Captain), N. Griffin (President), B. Kimpton,
W. Sharp, D. McCormack
Front Row: J. Bentley, L. OToole, V. Edson, J. Sainsbury, M. Harley, L. McKinnon

The name OBrien is well-known in Footscray and the fact that three brothers in Bernie, Wally and
Jack have worn the uniform helps to keep the memory green. This week we will deal with Bernie,
clever rover and forward, who has been a bit of a rolling stone, but one that, will always roll back to
his home town. Bernie was born on May 14, 1910 and attended St. Monicas with his brothers. One
of their team-mates was Alan La Fontaine. Leaving school Bernie played with Parkside and then had
a season with Kingsville, playing with Alby Morrison.
Sporting Globe (Melbourne), Sat 1 Sep 1934, Page 7
In 1934, Parkside played its fourth grand final in four years.
The 1934 season saw Parkside setting out to clinch permanent possession of The Advertiser Shield,
and as the season progressed, West Footscray appeared to be the only team standing in their way.
The first engagement provided a drawn game, with Parkside 13.17 to West Footscrays 15.5, and the
next was won by West Footscray, with the scores: West Footscray, 9.15 (69 points ) ; Parkside, 6.16 (
52 points). In the semifinal, Parkside were heartened by defeating West Footscray by 15.10 - to
14.11, but in the grand final West won by 9 points '9.10 to 8.7 and gained possession of the'
shield. Big scores were again a feature, Parkside reaching 20 goals or more on eight occasions, and
their highest was 41.26 to Scouts 1.3.
Leading goalkickers were: T. Murphy, 94 ; T. Eason, 48; A. E. Sharp, 43; Housen, 29
The Advertiser, Footscray, November 14, 1936
Pascarl points out that,
In 1934, after four games, Riverside Football Club disbanded, so in 1935, Parkside Football Club
withdrew Parkside B Team and instead helped start Newells Football Club. This team only lasted a
few years and then disbanded. [1933 - 1938]

By 1938, the Footscray District Football League had ten teams and Parkside Football Club never had
the number of registered players that they had in the first four or five years in the Footscray District
Football League. So they werent as dominant as they had been and also other clubs in the League
became more efficient.
I overlooked a match played in 1931 when a combined Footscray District Football League side played
Footscray Football Club 2nd. 18. Parkside had five players in that combined side, namely C. Stendman
(Captain), Bert Sharp, Jack Sainsbury, Bill OShannessy and Cyril Gration. Footscray 2nd. 18 won by
one point. Footscray 2nd. 18 scored 10-11-71 to FDFLs 9-16-70. Cyril Gration Best on Ground.
Similarly, Kevin Hiller remarks that,
1934 was a year of upheaval with two sides, Riverside & Footscray Presbyterians withdrawing from
the A Grade competition early in the season, forcing a redraw for the remaining six teams. The ten
team B Grade introduced many new clubs including Victor Socials, Sunshine Methodists and North
Footscray Imperials.
West Footscray won the A Grade flag and Newells the B Grade.
Most clubs were a product of local community groups, church groups or workplaces. In 1935, one of
the most influential employers of the western suburbs joined the league with the formation of the ICI
team from Deer Park.
1935 saw Newport, Spotswood and Williamstown Districts apply to join the league from the VFA sub-
districts, but they were refused. The three clubs officially disbanded. The FDJFL did accept new clubs
into the competition in Newport United and Spotswood Citizens.
They played on the grounds vacated by the disbanded clubs.
Clip Springers Football club, which was representing a commercial enterprise in Braybrook, applied
to join B Grade but was denied entry. St. Johns disbanded and Sunshine Methodists did not field a
team. Footscray Rovers became Seddon and for the first time, but not the last, the league changed its
name to the Footscray District Football League (FDFL).
1936 saw the introduction of an Under18 competition with five clubs fielding teams; the North
Footscray Imperials won the flag and went undefeated for the season. Two new clubs joined, in
Kingsville and Footscray Tech Old Boys.
Hillier, Kevin 2007, History of the WRFL/FDFL, Common Ground, Altona, Vic

A New Rivalry Is Born
New addition to the League, I.C.I. (Deer Park) proved to be a strong team.
Sunshine Advocate has recorded the first game between Parkside and Deer Park (I.C.I)
I.C.I. v. PARKSIDE
These teams met for the first time on Saturday last, and despite the fact that I.C.I. were without
their two stars, Greig and Glen, they put up a good game against the leaders in the league. Parkside
were also weakened by the absence of one or two players, but they are a well organised side with
many years experience of playing together. Taking everything into consideration the first season
I.C.I. side are to be congratulated, in running such a strong team to 13 points.
Parkside 7.13.55 d. I.C.I. 6.6.42 (Deer Park)
Sunshine Advocate (Vic. : 1924 - 1954) 14 Jun 1935
I.C.I. (Orica) Deer Park in Melbournes west has been used since 1885 for various forms of
manufacturing and storage of chemicals.

Allrounder, the reporter for Sunshine Advocate wrote in 1936 that,
DEER PARKS SECOND REVERSE AT HANDS OF PARKSIDE
Deer Park and Parkside, both at the head of the list, met in the match of the day in the Footscray
District League last Saturday at Parkside. The ground was in a very muddy condition, and the
weather didnt look too promising when play started.
Deer Park attacked on the bounce and soon had two goals up. Parkside, after some scrambling play
on the forward line, opened their account with a goal. Deer Park kept up the pressure but could only
manage singles. Three quick thrusts by the home side found the opposing defenders out of position,
and Parkside went ahead. Quarter time arrived with a two-goal margin in favor of the Parksides.
The second quarter was a dingdong go between the home defenders and the opposing forwards.
Deer Park were doing everything but kick goals. This fault seems to be the biggest one that the Blue
and Golds have to overcome if they are going to win the premiership.
However, despite this handicap Deer Park managed to reduce their deficit to eight points by half-
time. The third quarter was a repetition of the second, with Parkside fighting grimly to hold their
slender lead. Deer Parks faulty kicking was costly this quarter, as they could only manage three goals
from nine shots, whereas Parkside put on five goals straight. Rain began to fall and the game
developed into a mud scramble. Three-quarter time found Deer Park still eight points behind. Deer
Park attacked desperately on the bounce, but through their inability to handle the greasy ball lost
countless opportunities on their forward line. Parkside, on the other hand, adapted themselves better
to the conditions and managed to fire on three more goals, and ran out winners of a very interesting
game by 23 points. Final scores were:
PARKSIDE: 19.8. DEER PARK: 14.15.
Sunshine Advocate, 31 July 1936

The new Footscray Town Hall and Good Old Parkside
The civic complex was Footscrays first substantial public building, and the site chosen, near the
main railway station and in the most prestigious street, confirmed Napier and Hyde streets as the
civic and commercial centre. A grand clock tower and reception hall included in Kellys original
drawings for the building were never constructed.
In celebration of Footscrays achievement of city status in 1891, Mayor James Cuming presented a
stone drinking fountain and horse trough as a gift to the people of Footscray. It was crafted by local
monumental mason, James Taylor & Sons, and stood in Napier Street, in front of the old town hall.
History of Place:
Footscrays first town hall served admirably for sixty years. In August 1935 the Footscray City Council
passed a resolution approving the final plans and specifications for a new complex of municipal
offices.
Laying of Foundation Stone - Footscray Town Hall (1936)

Occupying the site of the old civic buildings, the new brick structure presented the latest thought in
municipal office planning, and its progressive design symbolised the faith of the Footscray people in
the future of their municipality. Footscray was the Birmingham of Australia, with the largest revenue
of any city in Victoria, excepting the City of Melbourne itself, and the new town hall would establish
Footscrays claim to leadership of Melbournes Western Suburban Districts. Things were indeed
looking up for Footscray; the economic outlook was brightening, and the council was about to restore
salaries and wages to predepression levels.
The foundation stone for the new building was laid by Mayor, Councillor W. H. Anderson, J.P., on 22
February 1936. Later in the year, on 19 November the Governor, Lord Huntingfield and his wife came
to open the new 40,000 town hall in front of 5000 people.
Compared to the new edifice the former civic building was sombre, its bluestone staid and grey, and
its entrance small and unimpressive. In its place, architect, Joseph Plottel had designed an imposing
Romanesque structure of grand civic proportions. Historian, John Lack aptly captures the
mood of the new architecture: Designed for a community emerging from a depression, Plottells
Town Hall amalgamated the suburban cinema with the moderne office block, and merged the
Hollywood Mediaeval of Errol Flynns Adverntures of Robin Hood with the suave interiors of Fred
Astaires Top Hat.
http://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/4926/download-report
At the same time, Parkside Football Club continues to build on its reputation as one of the best
junior clubs in the west.
FOOTSCRAY DISTRICT LEAGUE
PRELIMINARY FINAL AT SUNSHINE TO-MORROW
To-day the preliminary final of the Footscray District League will be played at Selwyn Park,
commencing at 2.45 p.m.
This game will be contested by West Footscray and Spotswood Citizens, and as the winners will
qualified to meet the Parkside combination in the grand final on the same ground on September 26,
nothing will be given away by either side. The teams are old opponents and have staged some
wonderful games during the past two years.

West Footscray have always been in the forefront of the League competition and have been
successful in annexing "The Advertiser" Shield on two occasions, and success this year would mean
that the trophy would be taken by the club for all time.
Spotswood have only been playing, in the district for two seasons, having reformed after the former
Spotswood club had withdrawn from the Association Sub-Districts. When in that competition the club
won they premiership on one occasion, and at all times contested the finals. Last Saturday
Spotswood were capable of defeating the strong Deer Park side by a large margin, and in doing so
produced their best form for the season. The form displayed was equal to that of 1935, when they
finished in the runners-up position to West Footscray, who defeated them in the grand final.
Charlie Walsh, who captained South Ballarat in the Ballarat League last year, has been coaching the
Citizens and has gradually moulded the team into a fine combination.
At present all players are available after an unusually large crop of injuries, and the strongest side
will be fielded to-day.
Although only finishing in fourth position the Green and Golds are confident of winning this game
and going on to meet and defeat the accomplished Parkside team on the following Saturday.
West Footscray have not shown the form, that won for them the honours last year, but this side
rarely produce the best football until the final rounds. Tom Waye is the club's mentor, and under his
guidance will take beating against all comers, even though it was tossed by the Parks last Saturday.
Selwyn Park should suit their breezy style of play, which is dependent on plenty of operating space.
The broad wings should suit them, and after the run on the large Footsrcay ground last Saturday all
members should be in great condition. West are determined to take the shield this year and are not
taking any risks with Parkside.
Parkside also share the distinction of having won the shield on two occasions, and West realise that
their victories will be wiped out should the shield be won by any other club. Their aim is to make short
work of Spotswood and with the benefit of that run repeat the performance when they meet
Parkside.
The District League has been put to a good deal of extra expenses in having to transfer the game to
the Selwyn Park ground, owing to the Footscray ovals being top-dressed, and would appreciate the
support of all local enthusiasts, who can expect a game of thrills from start to finish.
As the loser will be relegated from the race for the premiership both teams can be expected to
contest every inch of the way, which should provide interesting fare for onlookers.
Admission will be 7d. for adults and 3d. for children.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 18 Sep 1936 Page 2

The local football fans waited with great anticipations the 1936 Grand Final between Parkside and
Spotswood. Sunshine Advocate brought this introduction to 1936 Grand Final.
Footscray District League
PREMIERSHIP TO-DAY AT SELWYN PARK
The premiership of the A Grade of the Footscray District League will be decided to-day at Selwyn
Park, where Parksides will be opposed to Spotswood Citizens in what should be a game full of classy
football and sustained action. Both these clubs are capable of producing all the best to be seen in the
National code and a large crowd should be attracted to witness this final clash. During the season
these sides met twice in the home and home series and with one win each the honors are easy.
Parkside need little introduction to local football enthusiasts, having been a bye-Word in district
football for years.
Several of the players of this club have appeared in Sunshine colors, the more recent transfers to the
black and white combination being Tom Laffan. Tom has been the backbone of the Parksides since he
joined. Johnnie McMillan has also given sterling service since donning the black and white uniform
and should acquit himself with credit in this last game. The Parks have had a most successful year,
being defeated only on two occasions.
On the first day of the season Newells managed to overthrow this strong team, and the only other
loss was sustained at the hands of Spotswood, to whom they will be opposed to-day.
During the six years of the leagues existence Parkside have won the premiership on two occasions,
runners-up twice, and were squeezed into third position by Spotswood last year. If successful to-day
the club will retain the Advertiser Shield for all time, and if the enthusiasm imparted into their
training in the last weeks count for anything no stone will be left unturned to achieve that object.
Spotswood have been a strong side for years, and since joining the Footscray District League last
year have performed with great credit. Last season they headed the list at the end of the first round
and were only beaten into second place on the grand final by West Footscray.

This year, owing to injuries and transfer of players to the country a search of work, the old club had
lean period in the early stages, and it seemed doubtful if they would make the four. Keen
organisation and team building, however, managed to rectify this matter to allow them to enter the
finals. In the semi-final they ran the strong Deer Park side off their feet and won easily, giving them
the right to meet West Footscray at Selwyn Park last week. In that game they proved too fit and
enterprising for the premiers of last year and had no trouble to win in the closing stages, even though
they had to kick into a strong breeze and are at that end where no points bad been recorded for the
first three quarters.
Their fitness should stand them in road stead to-morrow, aid Parksides will find this side full of
running and serious contenders for the premiership. Both teams are evenly matched as regards
height and weight, but Spotswood seems to be more evenly balanced than their opponents. The pace
of their smaller men may be a deciding factor in what should be a close game, and spectators are
certain to see plenty of thrills and spills for their money.
Admission is 7d. for adults and 3d. for children.
Officials: Goal umpires: Bishop (Baptist), Robins (6th Melbourne Scouts); boundary: McKay (West
Footscray) and Walters (Altona). Reserves: Goal: Rosser (Newport); Boundary: Marshall (Captist).
Sunshine Advocate, 25 September 1936
Parkside has demonstrated again, dominance over the Spotswood, winning by the six goals margin.
It was 3rd Premiership flag for the Parkside Football Club in the six years old competition.
Parkside Third Pennant In District League
By decisively defeating Spotswood Citizens in the grand final on Saturday, the redoubtable Parkside
combination have won the premiership of the A grade for the third time since the inception of the
League. The club will hold the shield for all time.
No follower of junior football will begrudge Parkside their splendid victory, the management and
general play of this club being of high standard at all times and a model of efficiency.
Spotswood again take the runner-up trophy and in view of the lean season experienced by this club
compared with that of last year its effort in reaching the second position after only squeezing into the
four was full of merit. Unfortunately splendid football produced to enable them to contest the

final could not be repeated in the vital game and this club's players and supporters are lavish in their
praise of the high standard of football displayed by the victors.
Owing to the match having to be played at Sunshine, which was the nearest enclosed ground
available, many interested followers of the League were unable to be present. The interest created in
Sunshine and district compensated to some extent for the inconvenience.
The windy conditions made the ball hard to judge and were responsible for most of the play being
confined to one side of the ground. The enterprise of both sides was the main reason for the play
assuming anything near final standard, but Parkside's steadiness and ability to make the play were
the means of gradually wearing down the opposition.
Winning the toss, Spotswood had no hesitation in taking the advantage of the strong breeze and was
soon to the attack, with Parkside packing the back lines to prevent any high scoring. Spotswood
scored 3.2 to 0.7.
Parkside were all action in the second term and although Spotswood played better against the wind
the black and white combination soon made up their leeway and took the lead. Continuing their run,
they outplayed Spotswood and added goal after goal. Spotswoods back line fought out the issue, but
could not stem the tide.
At the interval Parkside had a commanding lead, 6.4 to 3.2.
It was anticipated that Spotswood would make a do or die effort in the third term with the help of
the breeze, but soon after it was apparent that their dash was lacking and the premiership would rest
with Parkside unless something unexpected happened.
Continuing in great form they took charge of the game and while keeping Spotswood down to 9
points increased their own total by another 4 goals.
Several Spotswood players were below form, but those on their game never gave hope. Parksides
team work at this stage was a revelation. Good shepherding and hard bumping paved the way for
the smaller men, in contrast Spotswood were sadly astray, definitely not in keeping with their usual
good team work.
The position at the final change was Parkside 10.5 to 4.5,
The losers were hard at it, even though Parkside could not be defeated, and managed to score a
point than the black and white conquerors in this term. Bill Doolan kept his men at it right up to the
final bell, but if anything Spotswood took the honors of the last quarter.

The large contingent of Parkside supporters let themselves go and gave their side a great hand as the
players left the field with the board reading
Parkside 11.8 to 5.8.
Goal kickers: Parkside A: Hurwood 3, Eason 2, Murphy 2, Herring, Johnson 2, And McMillan. Best
players, Parkside: McKinnon, W. Crehan, Murphy, Bentley, Eason, Johnstone.
The Mail, October 3, 1936, page 14
Parksides player, Tom Laffan had an additional reason to celebrate the 1936 season, winning the
FOOTSCRAY LEAGUE BEST AND FAIREST award.
Tom Laffan

By winning the grand final against Spotswood, Parksides by securing the pennant, shield and
premiership prize, gained almost a monopoly of the A grade trophies. In addition to those already
mentioned, the League award for the first and second best and fairest player went to Tom Laffan and
Midgy Johnson respectively. Rob Sainsbury, by his winning of the most outstanding players prize,
made the clean-up complete.
The Mail, October 3, 1936
1936 Premiers became the first winners of Advertisers Premiership Shield for all time!
Footscray District Trophies
Every endeavour should be made to extend the Australian football code to other countries, said the
speakers at the annual smoke social of the Footscray District League last night.
It was reported that 29 clubs were affiliated with the league in three grades, and there were 1 158
registered players.
Mr. R. T. Rush president of the National Football Council congratulated the Footscray League upon its
progress.
Presentations were made as follow:
Premiership Trophies - A Grade Advertiser Shield - Parkside
V F L pennant Parkside
Minor Premiership Trophies A Grade N. Griffen Cup - Parkside
Best and fairest players trophies were awarded to A grade S. C. Thomas medal T. Laffan (Parkside)
The Argus, Melbourne, Fri 30 Oct 1936, page 18

Bill Doolan proved to be one of the most successful Parkside coaches.
DURING his four years as coach of the Parksides, Bill Doolan, the former Footscray star, has gained
wonderful results. His team has won the premiership twice, as well as finishing in second and third
places on the other occasions. With his pleasing manner, Bill is popular with the Parksides, who are
fully appreciative of his services. One of them, Jim Gardner, is proud of the fact that it was he who
first induced the ex-League and Association man to come to them. Bill has not only given yeoman
service to the club as coach, but, in addition, has been more than useful in aiding injured players to
recover, as was instanced by his treatment to Rob Sains bury and Harold Tomlins. He is said to be
contemplating retirement this season, but I have no doubt that before he is allowed to do so,
strenuous efforts will be made by the Black and Whites to retain his services.
The Mail, Saturday, October 2, 1936
William Doolan known as Bill Doolan (1895 1963)
A back pocket player for Footscray during that club's last few years in the VFA and its first five in the
VFL, Bill Doolan could always be relied upon to give a solid, imperturbable account of himself.
Excellent overhead, he was an acknowledged master of the saving mark, and also repelled many
opposition attacking thrusts with his fine judgement and determination to win the ball. He was in the
back pocket in the Tricolours' 1923-4 VFA premiership teams as well as the 1924 state premiership
victory over Essendon. In 1925, Footscray's debut season in the 'big time', he was one of the club's
first two VFL interstate representative players.
http://australianfootball.com/players/player/bill+doolan/4292

Parksides dominance in the Footscray District League has continued into the 1937 season.
On Saturday last, at Newport, the locals were opposed to Parkside, and met defeat for the second
time of the season. This defeat places Newport in third position below Spotswood and Parkside.
Never at any time during the first half did Newport look like a winning side; in fact this period of the
game was the worst exhibition of football the local team has ever given. Perhaps the absence of two
very good players from the back line may have had something to, do with the situation, but
nevertheless it is safe to say that the team without any exception, was far below form In that
devastating, first half, which ended with the scores at 66 points to 12 points in the visitors favour.
A glance at the final scores will show that the spectators were treated to something like football they
have been used to, in the second half when Newport really had the call over their opponents, more
particularly in the final term when they kicked five goals to two.
Final scores: Parkside: 15-19-109; Newport: 8-15-53.
Williamstown Chronicle, Sat 26 Jun 1937
*****
SPOTSWOOD v. PARKSIDES
With both sides' displaying rugged and determined tactics, fortunes fluctuated in accordance with
the strong wind that swept across the ground; Parksides' greater purpose in attack and steadiness in
defence gave that side constant advantage over the more individual efforts of Spotswood. The
second half saw Spotswood attacking repeatedly, but was repelled by great defence by Parksides.
Players of both sides were frequently puzzled by the umpire's decisions. Parksides gained a hard-
earnt victory by 11 points.
Final scores: Parksides: 12 gls. 20 bhds. (92 pts). Spotswood: 11 gls. 15 bhds.'(81 pts.).
Williamstown Chronicle, Sat 24 July, 1937
*****
Up till half-time the Districts had given a good exhibition against the tall Parksides team, but for, the
good kicking of the leading forwards and the erratic kicking of 'Town's-sharpshooters the scores of 9-
3 to 4-3 could easily have 'been in 'Town's favour. After the second change the shortage of tall men
were causing 'Town's downfall, Parksides consistently keeping the ball high, where T. Ward and A.
McTaggart were the most effective on the ground. Two more players of-the ability of these chaps
and 'Town would be making the opposition play hard.
Final scores: Parksides, 29-26; Districts, 6-16.
Williamstown Chronicle, Sat 7 August, 1937

*****
Footscray District League 1937 semi-final
Spotswood Citizens v. Parksides
Spotswood Citizens met Parksides at Yarraville. Half-time scores: Parkside, 4-10; Spotswood, 0-11. In
the final term Parksides finished well and ran out easy winners, with Parkside, 11-19; Spotswood, 2-
20.
Williamstown Chronicle, Sat 4 Septembert, 1937
*****
I.C.I. v. PARKSIDE
Last Saturday ended the first round, when I.C.I. were home to the leaders, Parkside. I.C.I. kicked with
a strong wind, but took some time to settle down. At quarter time they led 4.4 to nil. This was the
first time for five years that Parkside had failed to score in one quarter. At half-time I.C.I. were down
only 13 points, the scores being 4.5 to 6.6. The game was being played very hard and the leaders
were hard pressed to keep I.C.I. out. At three-quarter time I.C.I. had again passed the
Parkside score and were 13 points in front. The last quarter was thrilling. For most of the quarter
Parkside could not break through, but near the end two goals were scored to give them the lead. Just
before the bell I.C.I. had a chance to score, but missed, and Parkside finished winners by 10.1: to 8.12,
after a great game.
Sunshine Advocate, 27 Aug 1937
*****
I.C.I. (Deer Park) earned a place in the Grand Final by beating Newport in the first semi-final and
Spotswood in the second semi-final.
I.C.I. have now won the right to meet Parksides for the premiership next Saturday at Footscray. A
large following of supporters is assured, and the boys are very confident of winning their first
premiership pennant. The players' bus will leave Sunshine at 1.40 p.m., and the supporters' bus
leaves Deer Park at 2 p.m. and Sunshine at 2.15. Players and officials are looking forward to the trip
to Maryborough on Saturday week.

Parksides fourth premiership came in September 1937.
Prksides Defeat I.C.I. In Premiership Match
Exhibiting considerably more vigour than the I.C.I. football team, Parksides gained their second
consecutive premiership at the Footscray football ground on Saturday. The locals put up a game fight
until half-time, but later on they wilted under the pressure and Parksides went on to win rather
easily.
The 1937 Grand Final score: Parkside 15.11.101 d Deer Park 8.13.61
Parksides Premiership
Last Saturday Parksides again annexed the premiership in the A. grade after a grilling game.
Parksides gave a wonderful display of football to win by 40 pts.
Best were: Sharp, R. Hobba, Cheeseman, Herring, Ward.
Last Wednesday at the players night the following trophies were decided:
Best and fairest, C. Gration, donated by Mr. N. Griffin ;
2nd best and fairest, A. E. Sharp, donated by F. Jones ;
most serviceable, T. Eason, (C. Curtain) ;
most consistent, J. Johnson (W. Dreyer);
best club man R. Ward (P. Kelly),
most improved, V. Crehan (F. D. P. Miller)
most unselfish, L. Cheeseman (D. Rogers)
most enthusiastic, E. Armstrong (W. OBrien).
A trip to Alexandra on September 26 and a dance in the Masonic Hall next Monday will be
premiership celebrations.

1938
In 1938, Parkside have failed to win a premiership and instead, the local community celebrated the
official opening of the Footscray Clinic.
Despite the common belief that, "Many years ago people didn't think that sports-related injuries
were severe enough to warrant any treatment and probably soldiered on in their daily lives seriously
limited in what they could do without thinking they needed it treated", the health care in our local
community is a role of immense importance.
http://www.abc.net.au/local/stories/2011/07/26/3277950.htm
Footscray Clinic
The Clinic Footscray was founded in 1936 by Dr Guthridge and Dr Dodd and it is the oldest Group
General Practice in Victoria. It began as a General Practice partnership but has included, in the past,
Radiological service, General Surgery, Paediatric and Obstetric and Gynaecological and Specialist
Physician practice. It has long served the people of the inner urban suburb of Footscray as a
comprehensive family medical practice and also treated work related injuries.
http://www.clinicfootscray.com.au/index.php?custID=36

Official Opening of Footscray Clinic
LOCAL SCOUTS TO PARADE FOR GOVERNOR
Owing to the 32nd Battalion being unable to parade for the Guard of Honor at the opening
ceremony of the Footscray and District Outpatients and Welfare Centre on Saturday next, 17th
December, District Commissioner (Mr. George Cuming) has been commanded by His Excellency the
Governor of Victoria (who is Chief Scout of this State), to parade the Footscray and Sunshine troops
on the above date: The Scouts will therefore form the Guard of Honor and be in the command of
Group Scoutmaster of the 5th Footscray Troop (Mr. Ralph Scchutt). As Lord Huntingfield is an ardent
admirer of the Boy Scout Movement this muster as a Guard of Honor should prove both impressive
and instructive, and add to the dignity of the occasion. The Footscray City Band ,has also promised its
support and will play selections during the afternoon. Although the Band, has had many demands
made upon it recently they willingly offered their services for this function. The Secretary-Manager
desires to acknowledge the donation of the following goods for use at the Centre:
Colonial Sugar Refining Co., bag of sugar;
Heparidine Distributors. Pty. Ltd., parcel of goods;
Ramsay (Surgical) Pty. Ltd., instruments;
Footscray . Division. of St. John's Ambulance will be in attendance during the afternoon to render any
assistance necessary.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 9 Dec, 1938, Page 4
Parkside Football Club continued to show strength in an ever increasing competitive FDF League
throughout whole 1938 season.
I.C.I. (DEEER PARK) v. PARKSIDE
This match, which was looked forward to with keen interest by supporters of both sides, took place
last Saturday at Footscray Park. Spectators were not disappointed, as a fast and clean game resulted.
From the bounce both teams were flat out to get a break, but with the respective backlines doing a
good job it was not until half the quarter had gone that either side could gain an advantage. Parkside
were gaining an ascendancy in the ruck, and it was owing mainly to this that they were able to finish
the first quarter six points in front. The second quarter was a repetition of the first, and with the ball
flashing from end to end with good systematic football the spectators were kept on their toes with
excitement. Deer Park could only manage to gain a point on the Parkside score during this quarter,
and the long interval arrived with the black and whites holding a five point lead -a good indication of
the play.

When the third quarter opened the visitors were first away, and using the straight-down-the-centre
method of attack soon had Parkside on the defensive. Two quick goals gave I.C.I. the lead for the first
time. Having gained this leads they were determined to hold it, and although Parks threw everything
they had into the fray they could only manage to get within seven points at the end of the quarter.
The last term promised to be a thriller, and with both sides striving desperately for the goal that
would make all the difference between victory and defeat, the large crowd was in a roar of
excitement. Parkside managed to creep up to within two points, but I.C.I. remained calm in the crisis,
and that was as near as Parkside could get. A goal to Deer Park and the game was all over, Parkside
failing by just six points. It had been a great game to watch, and everybody went away satisfied that
barring accidents Deer Park should gain the flag for this season. The final scores were:
I.C.I.: 10.14. d. PARKSIDE: 10.8.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 5 Aug 1938, Page 3
Footscray District League
Football Semi-Final
Deer Park Meet Parksides
Deer Park meet Parkside in the semi-final. This match will take place at Newport next Saturday.
Deer Park have been training particularly hard during the last fortnight and local supporters are
assured that the team will enter the arena in first class fettle. Deer Park should have every man on
the list available for this game for the first time this season and it looks as though the selectors are
going to have a headache on Thursday night in picking the side. The big Newport oval should suit
I.C.I.'s style of open play and providing the fine weather continues the large crowd that is expected
should witness a great game.
Deer Park and Parkside have met twice this season and the locals have won both matches, by five
goals at Deer Park and seven points at Footscray Park. This should give them plenty of confidence for
next Saturday's game.
Parkside play a hard vigorous game and if they can keep the game close Deer Park will have to be at
their top to get the points. However, Parkside tried the same tactics at Footscray Park, but Deer Park
meeting vigor with vigor managed to scrape home. Deer Park's high marking and their ability to open
the game up on a big ground coupled with their superior stamina should just about gain them the
points.
*****
Spotswood managed to scrape home from Parkside by three points in the final last Saturday and so
earned the right to meet Deer 'Park in the Grand Final.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 9 Sep 1938, Page 5

1939
FOOTBALL I.C.I. PROVE TOO FAST FOR PARKSIDES'
The game against Parksides was reported as being the match of the day, but contrary to
expectations, it developed into a rugged scramble until half time, when the standard of football
improved and the I.C.I. boys revelled in the open play which Parksides failed to stop. During the third
term when play was a little congested, there were some hard knocks taken which seemed to have its
effect on the opposing side.
When the bell rang for the final 25 minutes Parksides were only ten points in arrears and kicking with
a slight breeze. The last quarter had not gone far when the I.C.I. rucks, led by the "iron" man
("Gunner" Hunter), had the measure of the Parks tired defenders, and added four quick goals which
seemed to disorganise the players and supporters alike.
Deer Park kicked 9.8, to 1.2 in the last term. The final scores were:
Deer Park 18.24 P arksides 9.14
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 16 June 1939, page 2
*****
Braybrook went under to Parksides last week after an evenly fought first half. At this stage, the loss
of their ruck strength in Jack Moffat was a severe blow, shortly followed by L. Falla (ankle injury), and
Captain Pie Lewis. With the side disorganised and playing 16 men, the Brooks were unable to cope
with the good football of the Parks, who ran out winners by 15.11 to 7.7.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 11 August 1939, page.3
*****
I.C.I. VERSUS PARKSIDES
Deer Park were at home on Saturday where a very poor exhibition of football was witnessed. The
Deer Park side fielded eighteen men -these being the full complement of players to choose from. The
play by both sides never revealed premiership football, but Parks were too superior everywhere in the
first half of the game. They kicked very accurately realising that their percentage would have to be
bumped up, thus a ten-goal advantage at, the change.
The second half was not so disastrous for I.C.I. from a goal-kicking point, but nevertheless Deer Park
could not make up the leeway. Although the scoring was equal in this term the football never
improved.The final bell rang and the I.C.I side was not at all perturbed at the reverse because they
realised had the team that will play in the finals been available matters would have been

different.The last time these teams met it was I.C.I. who won by ten goals.
The final scores were: PARKSIDES : 20.21 d. I.C.I.: 10.11
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 18 Aug, 1939, Page 7
*****
BRAYBROOK TO MEET PARKSIDES
The match against Parksides tomorrow is to be played at the Footscray football ground, and in the
opinion of good judges of the game the winners of this match will be premiers. But they still have to
meet I.C.I. in the grand final on Satuirday week. With Len Falla and D. Fisher in Saturday's side, they,
will line up armed to the teeth, with condition, courage and will to win.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 8 Sep, 1939, Page 6
Parkside entered another Grand Final in 1939, beating the Braybrook Football Club in the
preliminary final.
Parksides defeated Braybrook in no uncertain manner last Saturday and now challenge I.C.I. for the
premiership. There is no real excuse for 'Brook's defeat. Naturally everybody is keenly disappointed
and feel that 'Brook had their day off and have nothing but sincere congratulation to offer all
Parksides, and to both "Parks" and I.C.I. we wish the best of luck in the final.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 15 September 1939, page 7

I.C.I., .PREMIERS
Easily Defeat Parkside
Playing on the Footscray ground last Saturday I.C.I. were victorious over Parksides in a great game.
This is I.C.Is first premiership since entering the Footscray District League five years ago, being
runners-up twice.
The football produced by Deer Park was first class, every player doing his job well. The first quarter
saw I.C.I. kicking against the breeze and right from the bounce they attacked "Parks' goal and found
the opening three times before Parks could retaliate.
It was a good opening burst and already it was a winning advantage. Both sides settled down in the
second term and played good open football. The I.C.I. wingmen excelling in a series of short passes
which generally ended with a scoring advantage. Although Parks were playing good, hard 'ball, they
could not cope with the pace of our smaller players who were outstanding on the big ground.
When the bell rang IC.I. had a five goal advantage and looked certain to maintain it to the final.
Although Parks were fighting a losing battle they never slackened, but in trying to recover I.C.Is lead,
it took its toll and all hope was lost, for the final 20 minutes was just a matter of how many goals
Deer Park would win by.
During the third term some of the players got a little ruffled and it threatened to develop into a
melee in the centre, but the capable handling of the situation by the umpires soon had the game
under control and it finished without further incident.
Scores: I.C.I. 14.14 d. PARKSIDES 8.13
Barkly Bakery horse and cart ~ Footscray,Victoria in 1939

Mr Norman Griffin will go down as perhaps the most successful president in the history of
the Parkside Football Club.
Mr Norman Griffin
He was a well-known resident of Footscray. Mr Griffin was an established jeweller and a long term
occupant in Hopkins Street. He started in 1923 and moved to number 141, Hopkins Street. At these
premises he made the first Footscray Mayoral Chain (Cr Hanmer), in 1936, at the advent of the new
Footscray Town Hall, designed by architect Joseph Plottel.
Another of his community roles included a sixteen year term as Parkside Football Club president,
begun in 1925. His son, Alan, carried on the jewellery business at 141, in later years.
https://applications.doi.vic.gov.au
https://www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/Files/Footscray_trail_brochure.pdf
Werribee Shire Banner, 1933

Dark clouds began to rapidly gather over a troubled world, In 1939,
On 3 September 1939 Prime Minister Robert Gordon Menzies announced the beginning of
Australia's involvement in the Second World War on every national and commercial radio station in
Australia.
Small arms ammunition factory, Footscray, Victoria 1939
https://www.livingmuseum.org.au/student%20projects/Igor%20Beras%202006/index.html
The Argus, Melbourne wrote in June 1940,
FOOTSCRAY RALLY
Cr. C. A. Beever, Mayor of Footscray, Is organising a big recruiting rally on Footscray Oval, the date
for which has been fixed tentatively for Sunday, July 14 is proposed that the whole of Footscray's war
effort shall be illustrated by "strong posts" of Red Cross and other workers, and the local air raids
precautions organisation, and that a detachment of the A.I.F., bands, and Boy
Scouts will take part.
*****
30,000 Expected
Six bands and representatives of all the fighting services will take part in a great win-the-war rally
which will take place on the Western oval, Footscray, at 3 pm tomorrow.

Speakers will Include Mr Menzies and Mr Curtin.
About 30 000 people are expected to attend
AIP Naval and Air Force men will march with the 32nd Battalion A.M.F. and members of the
Footscray branch of the RSL from the drill hall near the oval on to the arena.
A.R.P. and Red Cross workers, St John Ambulance Brigade, Voluntary Aid Detachment, Boy Scouts,
and Australian Air League have also been allotted stations on the arena
The Argus Melbourne, 13 July 1940
DERISIVE REPLY TO HITLER
MR. MENZIES SAYS "NO SURRENDER"
The answer to Hitler's 95 minutes speech in the Kroll Opera House, Berlin, would be derisive laughter
on the part of the whole British world, said the Prime Minister at a patriotic rally on the Western
oval, Footscray, yesterday afternoon.
All Hitler had said in 95 minutes could be replied to in half a minute, said Mr. Menzies. Our challenge
would be "Peace, yes, but on our terms, Hitler, not yours."
The Argus Melbourne, Mon 22 Jul 1940

FOOTSCRAY'S HOPE
Good wages as well as considerable amounts in overtime were being earned in Footscray, said Cr. C.
A. Beever, the Mayor, when he opened the local War Savings Ceitiflcate Campaign yesterday
afternoon. He hoped that some of that money would find its way into war funds.
Cr Beever added that Footscray had subscribed 70 000 to war funds, but with a population of 60
000, he thought they should try to raise 500 000. Six hundred local men had volunteered for the
fighting services, and it was the duty of their fellow citizens to support them In every way.
The Argus, Tue 15 Oct, 1940
Just as football scaled new heights the onset of World War II stopped the game in its tracks.
Footballers were lost to the war effort and crowds plummeted. By the depths of 1942 the average
attendance dropped below 10,000 for the first and only time on record. There was some level of guilt
shrouding players and supporters partaking in such a comparatively frivolous exercise, though an
alternate point of view (supported by former PM Robert Menzies) was that footy served a valuable
psychological and social purpose, in addition to contributing money for patriotic funds.
The public will say so through the turnstiles; till they do footy should go on As soon as the game
interferes with the application of war needs then the game must go after all, football is of small
moment. - Hec De Lacy, The Globe by Jeff Dowsing
http://australianfootball.com/articles
The period 1942-43 was the most critical, for the nation and the VFL. Football grounds were
attractive for military use because they provided accommodation space, with catering and ablution
facilities, parade grounds and ample storage areas. With the Australian Government assuming
control of manpower and resources, extra pressure was placed on the way the general populace
could spend its limited leisure time. As in the Great War, it was agreed that football provided a
valuable diversion from the constant focus on the war.
*****
Footscray football ground lost due to questionable chemistry
The first evidence that Footscrays home ground, the Western Oval, was destined for military
occupation was when it was disclosed in early April 1942 that troops were comfortably housed in
the Footscray Harriers headquarters, which was only a very small part of the complex. At this stage

there was no definite indication that the whole venue would be taken over by the military authorities.
On 19 April, there was a public review of civil defence units at the Western Oval, attended by Arthur
Drakeford, MHR for Maribyrnong, and Minister for Air.
There had been no formal decision by the military about its intentions for the Western Oval and
Footscray Council pressed for a decision. The council made every effort to enable the football club to
continue playing there. The training quarters were still available, and the Bulldogs trained at the
ground on 2 May, one week before the season started.
Then, on 6 May the entire football ground, including all surrounding buildings and structures, was
formally requisitioned by the Hirings Directorate. On 8 May, the venue was occupied by troops of the
US Forces Chemical Warfare Service. Parts of the 62nd Chemical Company Depot and 10th Chemical
Company Maintenance took occupation. Those arrangements were in place until 31 October 1942
when the US forces vacated.
There is another angle to this occupation of the Footscray ground by the US. Although Australia and
the United States were signatories to the Geneva Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of
Asphyxiating, Poisonous or other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, the protocol only
prohibited the use of such weapons and not their production. The document can be characterised as
a no-first-use agreement rather than a non-proliferation treaty and some nations declared that it
would cease to be binding on them if their enemies failed to respect the prohibitions of the protocol.
Consequently, considerable stockpiles of chemical weapons were held in Australia for possible use
against Japan. In addition to this, the United States had not ratified the protocol which left open the
possibility of 'first use'.
Bruce Coe and Bruce Kennedy, No Umpires in this Game: The Victorian Football League During
Two World Wars, Footy Histories, Melba ACT, 2016
1941 Grand Final Football Record

Parade of 5 U.S. Marine Corps before a game of American Football. MCG 1943.
The club colours red, white and blue were the greatest colours in the world today, while its
mascot the bulldog had on many occasions recently symbolised that great leader Winston
Churchill. (Footscray Advertiser, 3 May 1941)
http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/club/history/timeline/1940s

Aerial Picture of Yarraville Oval, which was the home ground of the Bulldogs during World War II.
Picture: Picture Victois.
Footscray FC used Yarraville Oval as a temporary home in 1941 and 1942 because the Western Oval
was being used as a camp for soldiers on their way to New Guinea during World War Two.
The club moved back to the Western Oval in 1943.
The grounds record crowd was estimated to be between 16,000 and 18,000 people who attended
Ron Todds first VFA match for Williamstown against Yarraville in 1940.
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/a-look-back-at-some-of-footys-bizarre-playing-
venues/news-story/4fea3a0149f9e4093e64812da65a6440

The 1941 FDFL Grand Final
It was no surprise that in times of war, nations try to maintain their own defence industries. I.C.I.
(Deer Parks) which was the most important commercial manufacturer of high explosives in Australia,
contributed to wartime production in ammunition, initiators and the development of synthetic
ammonia production and construction of the Defence Explosives during World War Two. National
dependence on the defence forces and military industry coincided with the establishment of the
Deer Park as dominant force within FDFL, winning premierships in 1939, 1940 and 1941.
Kevin Hillier puts out that,
ICI Deer Park had taken over from Parkside as the dominant club in the competition. World War
Two was having a huge effect on all levels of society. Clubs were finding it difficult to field teams;
Sunshine District went into recess and West Spotswood withdrew, as did West Footscray and CSR.
This was a time when other matters took precedence over sport, and the Western and Yarraville
ovals were garrisoned with anti-aircraft batteries, as Footscray was seen to be a highly likely target
of enemy air raids in the event of invasion. Housing was scarce, ethnic tension was a real issue and
the economy was far from healthy.
The 1940 B Grade Premier, South Footscray, was promoted to A Grade and Sunshine Districts re-
joined the League along with a new club in Newport CYMS. Combine disbanded during the season
and ICI became the first team to win back to back flags in A Grade, before going into recess.
Only six clubs competed in the 1942 season in each grade but three new teams joined the Under 18s;
St. Thomas (from Moonee Ponds), Yarraville Socials and Parkside. West Footscray returned to A
Grade after winning the 1941 B Grade flag. Essendon Thirds replaced Newport in B Grade. Kingsville
and Seddon were elevated and Combine reorganised and re-entered the competition along with
Yarraville Socials.
Parkside Football Club was committed to survive through that difficult time and was looking forward
to the future, and feeling grateful for the past.
1940 Preliminary Final
I. C.I. meets Parksides in the final which will be played on the Footscray oval. A big crowd is
expected to see a good even match, but after the way in which I.C.I. finished on last week, the
indications are that I.C.I. will be the team to meet North Footscray for the premiership next week.
I.C.I. have practically a full list for this match.
Supporters' bus will leave Sunshine post office at approximately 2.20 p.m.

I.C.I. defeat PARKSIDES
Before a big crowd I.C.I. easily defeated Parksides in the preliminary final at Footscray last,
Saturday.
I. C.I. made sure of the game in the first quarter when they kicked 8.6. As expected, I.C.I. and North
Footscray meet in the grand final on Saturday at the Footscray oval. Last week's game was a very,
good practice, and with every man fit, I.C.I. should win their second successive premiership. The only
doubtful thing about the team has been the in ability to kick goals instead of points, and after last
week's efforts we have hopes of reversing our recent scores against our opponents.
Scores last Saturday were 17.15 to 11.21.
The lack of affection and interest for the Parkside Football Club by the local press, was constant
during the 20s, 30s and 40s and for that matter, for all local clubs situated in Footscray area. They
were driven by parochial interest that was defined by their location.
During that period local newspapers were situated within Sunshine, Williamstown, and Werribee
focusing their attention on the clubs that played within their particular geographical domain.
Again, in 1941 Parkside and I.C.I. met each other in the Grand Final.
PARKSIDES OUTPLAYED IN GRAND FINAL
On a ground that was in perfect condition for football I.C.I., by defeating Parksides, won their third
successive premiership and the Advertiser Shield a feat only achieved by their opponents in this
match. Stronger across the centre, winning in the air and exploiting the loose man to perfection, I.C.I.
lead right throughout. For the third week in succession Roy Pope, I.C.I.'s captain and coach, lost the
toss and Parksides decided to kick towards the Barkly St. goal.
Getting the hit out in the ruck the Parks were first to attack and soon had a point on the board which
was followed by a nice kick from well out which produced a goal. From Featherby's hit out, Pope
forwarded on to Tassie Graham who with a brilliant kick brought up both flags for I.C.I., attacking
again a neat pass found Bert Wiggins, who scored full points from 50 yards out. Stan Taylor was
doing a good job at centre half back, but Parks keeping up the pressure were successful in scoring
two quick goals which kept the crowd at a high pitch of excitement.

Not to be denied I.C.I. came again and by some brilliant football by the forwards I.C.I. took the lead.
Taking a nice mark, again booted truly, followed by a goal to Wiggins who had received from Skipper
Hassett. Wiggins and Graham were in deadly form. After some fierce ruck duels, Hassett came into
the picture again, and from a free kick passed to Gunner Hunter who put it through. At this stage
Parks were being rattled, from a scrimmage in front Graham received and kicked a goal off the side
of his boot a grand effort. Just as the bell sounded Wiggins marked brilliantly and took his kick which
registered his side's seventh goal for the term.
Scores: I.C.I. 7-2 Parksides 3-1
Parks were first to attack from the bounce of the second quarter, but brilliant play by Taylor held up
their advance.
Hallahan received from Taylor, but was forced back around the wing where at least five or six
Parkside men were standing unguarded, which let them in. to kick their fourth goal. Although
Featherby was doing a great job in the ruck, I.C.I.'s back men were not minding their men and were
being beaten to the ball. At this stage it was still anybody's game.
With half the quarter gone I.C.I. had failed to bring the ball past the centre. Cameron was playing a
good game for Parks and with Johnston in form, added a couple of goals. I.C.I. started to wake up
and with good football Grant, Nichols and Gray forced play down to' the forward zone, where
Graham with a snap shot put it through for two flags. I thought the umpiring at this stage was
excellent. From the centre, where Chatfield was playing extra well, a neat pass was sent to Wiggins
who coolly forwarded to Graham who disputed a mark with a Parks' player The mark was awarded
to Parks and his kick sent play up past the centre onto Parks' forward line, where it was put through
for major points, Parks attacked again only to see I. C.I., through the agency of Gunner Hunter,
relieve with a brilliant mark, play was sent up to I.C.I.'s forward pocket where Eddie Hunter
registered a point with a long kick.
The quarter ended: I.C.I., 9-3 to Parksides, 7-6. From the hit out Pope passed to Nichols, who took a
free for a trip, he passed to Howell, who was beaten for the ball, and once again play was forced into
Park's forward zone to find I.C.I still out of position, but a poor kick only brought up a point Featherby
and E. Hunter were combining well, and a pass from Hunter to Gray who was brought clown rather
solidly, was good football. Still rather groggy, Gray passed to Howell' who kicked a goal.
Howell again getting the ball passed to Jeffleries alone in front, to goal. I.C. I. now had a run on and
with a brilliant clash by Pope around the wing the ball was sc at right up to the goal mouth, where
Gray waiting behind pack slammed it through. Nicholls playing brilliantly on the wing passed to
Graham, but Parks battling hard soon had play back on their forward line, Searle, Day and Roche
strove valiantly to force the ball away, but the ball was kicked in for full points to Parks.
Parks battling hard soon had playback on their forward line, Searle, Day and Roche strove valiantly to
force the ball away, but the ball was kicked in for full points to Parks.

From the ruck Pope received and goaled with a nice shot only to see Paks reply with another goal in
about two minutes.
The term ended with the score I.C.I., 13-4, Parksides, 9-7
On the bounce Parks received a free which was marked by Eddie Hunter, play was brought back to
the centre, but Parks attacking desperately drove, the ball forward and it was marked by the forward
for a goal. Parks attacked again but Alan Grant, ever reliable, relieved only to find his pass
intercepted. A free against Rocke for a plush in the back and another goal came their way. Our
opponents were now putting up a great fight and play began to get vigorous, but the pressure which
the locals had applied all day was starting to take toll of the Park men. J. Hallahan, who had played
sterling; football all day, was now figuring in every move clown the wing.
Finishing on in grand style with a nice lead to their credit, I.C.I. brought the ball down where Tassie
Gaham missed from an acute angle, but from a scrimmage in front Jim Jefferies got his foot to the
ball to bring up two flags. At this stage it was all I.C.I., and when Howell from a long way out kicked
his sides fifteenth goal, it was all over bar the shouting.
Parks came back again to start an attack but with Bill Day unbeatable at full back and Stan Taylor
playing the game of his life, play was soon back in front of I.C.I.'s goal where Wiggins kicked a
grubber through.
Jeffleries went off with a broken finger and Owen Wallis, 19th man, came on and quickly celebrated
the occasion by kicking his first and the club's seventeenth and last goal for the 1941 season.
Thus ended a good game, with both sides playing the game as it should be played.
Final scores were:
I.C.I. 17-5 d Parksides 12-10
THE FIRST BUILDING ERECTED BY THE COMMONWEALTH WAR WORKERS HOUSING TRUST FOR
WOMEN WAR WORKERS. THIS BUILDING IS IN GORDON STREET, FOOTSCRAY, AND IS MANAGED BY
THE YOUNG WOMEN'S CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION (YWCA).

The sport's cry as a battle cry
World War II was a tragic episode in world history, which caused millions of people to suffer,
costing 55 million lives. Almost a million Australians, both men and women, served in the Second
World War. They fought in campaigns against Germany and Italy in Europe, the Mediterranean and
North Africa, as well as against Japan in south-east Asia and other parts of the Pacific.
https://www.awm.gov.au/atwar/ww2/
Jeff Dowsing rightly pointed out that,
There was some level of guilt shrouding players and supporters partaking in such a comparatively
frivolous exercise, though an alternate point of view (supported by former PM Robert Menzies) was
that footy served a valuable psychological and social purpose, in addition to contributing money for
patriotic funds.
http://australianfootball.com
In 1942, the shadow of WW2 reached Australia's shores for the first time and the Second World War
entered its second phase. The Australian mainland came under direct attack for the first time, as
Japanese aircraft bombed towns in north-west Australia and Japanese midget submarines attacked
Sydney harbour.
Dowsing argues that,
The game was undoubtedly much slower. Given the lack of running capacity with brief pre-seasons
and training that often entailed little more than kick-to-kick, positional play had to be the order of
the day.
Yet, as unsophisticated as that all sounds, frantic rolling mauls and 36 players flooding one-third of
the ground isnt exactly progress either. Perhaps the war era wasnt so bad after all.
Even the horrors of the war and the terrible suffering it inflicted on a whole nation could not stop
the Australian rules to float.
The executive of the Victorian Football League expressed its pleasure that many games under
Australian National Council rules have been played by our lads, and that the spectacular features of
our game have, as they did in the last war, greatly impressed the British, French and other Allied
soldiers: It added that in order to encourage the playing of the game among Australian soldiers, 'it is
intended by the League to contribute towards the supply of further footballs:"
The pervasiveness of Australian rules football among the Australian troops in the Middle East was
described in 1942 by a returning veteran, Victorian Football League ex-umpire Warrant Officer Alf

Miller, who had also served in World War I. He said he had 'umpired in matches in many lands and
never missed the opportunity to advertise the Australian game of football by arranging matches
under all sorts of conditions:" For many soldiers in the Middle East, football and sport were so
intertwined with war that the Australian 9th Division adopted the football cry, 'Up there, Cazaly; as
its war cry shouted by soldiers going into combat in places such as Tobruk. Among the soldiers in the
Middle East there appear to have been a number of supporters from player Roy Cazaly's old club, the
South Melbourne Football Club. They seemed to have been to the fore in promoting the sport's cry as
a battle cry.
South Melbourne great Roy Cazaly takes one of his iconic one-handed marks.
The Victorian Football League even received correspondence from captured Australians in German
prisoner of war camps telling them of games of Australian rules played in the camps. One letter from
a Corporal George Thompson in September 1942 expressed his pride in Australian sporting prowess
among the prisoners of war. Thomson wrote that the Aussies were well to the front at a sports
meeting held here He expressed his pleasure that Australian rules football was played in the camp
and mentioned two prisoner of war players who had previously played in the Melbourne football
competitions, Alfred Ludlow and Frederick William Pascoe. His letter ended with him expressing the
desire for the Victorian Football League to keep playing its major competitions: Tell the boys to
carry on, as we are keeping our tails up.
Kevin Blackburn, War, Sport and the Anzac Tradition, Palgrave Macmillan UK, 2016

In 1942, Williamstown Chronicle provides a comprehensive description of the game played between
Sunshine Districts and Parkside.
The Districts' winning sequence was brought to, an end last Saturday at the local ground, when the
Parkskides' lasted better in a thrilling finish to record a narrow victory. But considering that the team
was faced, just prior to the start of the match, with the prospect, of giving a walkover, due to ten of
the previous week's team being unavailable, the officials and players have no reason to bet
despondent about the 12-point reverse.
The game was a good one, but also one of contrasts. In the first half the visitors played the more
accomplished football, exploiting both the Districts' key-positional weakness and the ground pockets,
in relation to the tricky crosswind, with success, and, with a six-goal lead at the interval looked an
easy winner. However, after the long break the Districts settled down better, and with a glimpse of
then rugged determination, which has characterised most of its other games, gradually reduced the
leeway until only a goal separated the scores.
The best football of the day took place in the quick-fire exchanges of the last few minutes, and in the
excitement the more experienced Parksides were able to hold off the brilliant Districts' rally to retain
its winning lead.
The defeat was not without its compensations, and several of the younger players, who had to be
called upon to make up the side, played so well that they, will have to be considered for future
selection, even when the full strength is available.
Ten Changes Enough to Unsettle Any Team.
With a run of five successive wins and leaders of the competition, Districts were naturally the
favourites for the game, especially when it was recalled that in the earlier game the opposition had
been defeated by over 20 goals, at Footscray. Since that occasion Parksides, have strengthened their
team considerably, and on Saturday's form must again be considered a strong contender for the
season's honours. Districts' first setback came when it was learned that the captain, Joe McGrath,
had to be taken home from work suffering from pleurisy. His brilliant roving and heady captaincy
would have proved invaluable in a game in which tactics played such a prominent part. Subsequently
it was also learned that from the previous week's team Ryan (at a wedding), Saker(injured)), Byers
(camp), Vinall (working), Boden and McDonald (both ill), and McTaggart (Footscray Seconds) would
all be non-starters. The selectors were forced to re-shuffle their original selection.
A Brief Resume of the Game.
Parksides were the first away and rattled on four goals--before Walsh put, the ball through for the
Districts' first big point. The visitors were following up their play, and in comparison the locals looked

sluggish and not interested in the result. There were several exceptions, and the kicking in of Bonnai
was exceptionally good. Districts' back men were putting up a grand defence, with the exception of
allowing the spelling rover to do too much damage. In fact, most of the Parksides' goals came from
this quarter.
At the, interval the scores' were: Parksides .. .. 10-8-68 d. Districts . .. .. 4-8-32
Len Breninger gave his team a good address, and several of the players changed positions with
Ron Pine taking over the vacant centre. Good football was the order on resumption, and Districts
infused some more spirit into its play, with the result that the visitors were unable to consolidate its
handy half-time lead. Bad kicking for goal spoilt the home side's chance of being within striking
distance at lemon-time, when the scores were: Parksides 12.8. 80, to 7-11-53. Parksides were
beginning to feel the strain of the big ground and, were tiring.
Several goals gave the Districts a show, and the excitement grew as the visitors' score was being
overtaken. Only a goal behind and the ball in front gave the Districts a definite opportunity to clinch
the game but desperate defence saved the Parksides in the dying minutes of the match. A good clean
and entertaining game virtually ended when the Parksides in a last minute thrust goaled just before
the final bell.
Final Scores: Parksides: 14 gls. 12 bhs. 96 .pts. d. Districts: 12 gls, 12 bhs. 84 pts.
Williamstown Chronicle, Fri 17 Jul 1942, Page 3

Changi Plaque
Despite the war that has raged in the world for 3 years which saw huge national sacrifices, the game
of Australian Rules football have evolved and strengthened.
Argus (Melbourne) wrote in April 1943,
FOOTBALL RULES DISCUSSED
Several general rules of umpiring were discussed by VFL Permits and Umpires' Committee at its
meeting last night, and views of the committee and its interpretations of the laws governing
umpiring were put before 12 VFL umpires.
Mr F. O'Brien, chairman of the Permits and Umpires' Committee, said the umpires had been called
together to discuss several rules which appeared to have been deviated from last season, especially
those which governed holding the manholding the ball. It was felt, he said, that no free kick should be
given if the player was making a genuine effort to kick the ball on, and that a player should be given
reasonable time to get rid of the ball. Mr O'Brien also directed umpires' attention to the rule
governing slinging, which, he said, was the act of catching a player by or around the neck and
throwing him or attempting to throw him to the ground. "By the neck" included the neck and top of
the shoulder, and not by the arm or below the top of the shoulder.
A suggestion made bj' Mr H. Clover (Carlton), a member of the committee, that there should be
greater co-operation between players and the umpire was also discussed.
Permits were granted to the fol-lowing players: To Collingwood: W. Duckworth (Parkside Amateurs)
and M. Harvey (Collingwood Seconds).
The committee also discussed a ruling that any player who during the 1943 football season
transferred from the League club which was eliminated from the competition at the end of the 11th
round should not be permitted to return to the League club from which he had transferred before the
end of the 1944 football season. This motion was agreed to, and will be submitted to the next
general meeting of the VFL.
Argus, Thursday 22 April 1943, page 9
For some prisoner-of-war football game meant more to them than anyone can imagine . This
incredible and touching story of love for the game, endurance and loyalty to his beloved Richmond
Football Club, was published in July 2015 in Bussines Insider Australia.
Sothebys Australia has an incredible piece of World War II history coming up for auction later this
month: an Australian Rules premiers trophy plaque declaring Richmond as the winners of the 1942
premiership at Changi POW camp.

Richmond lost to Essendon by 53 points in the actual VFL grand final back in Melbourne in 1942, but
lot 278, a 30cm-wide handwritten Changi plaque is an insight into the resilience of Australian diggers
at the notorious Japanese-run prisoner-of-war camp, which initially housed 15,000 Australians in
1942. Two years later, just 5000 remained there.
It comes with details of the match and players.
The plaque reads:
RICHMOND FOOTBALL CLUB, PREMIERS, 1942, Australian Rules Association, P. O. W. CAMP CHANGI,
Coach: Horgan D., Trainer: G. Brown, Pres: A. Bush, Capt: P. MacKinlay, Vice Capt: R. Small,
Secretary: B. C. Wootten, Treasurer: H. Hollioak, Presented to P. J. Campbell as a member of the
above Club., President Changi League.
Bobby Small came from Donald, Victoria and enlisted in the AIFs Australian medical corps at the
Melbourne Town Hall on 28 July, 1941. He landed in Singapore on 15 September and became a
prisoner of War after the fall of Singapore in February 1942.
Small was Richmonds vice captain in the grand final, played at 7pm on 17 October 1942. The
match report says Small was master of the centre and gathered the crumbs so that Richmonds
forwards got most of their opportunities.
Small died of dysentery on 15 December, 1943, having been dispatched by the Japanese to be one of
the forced labour crews working on the Burma-Siam railway.
He is buried at Kanchanaburi War Cemetery in Thailand along with too many of his mates.
https://www.businessinsider.com.au/theres-an-extraordinary-afl-premiers-plaque-from-changi-
prison-during-wwii-up-for-auction-2015-7
http://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2008/the-connoisseur39s-spring-collection-
including-the-private-collection-of-colin-lennox-and-tom-gillies-john-stephens-and-the-late-john-
klinger-au0723/lot.202.html

1943
"C" GRADE
Sunshine were at home to Parksides, andl on winning the toss elected to kick with the wind to the
southern goal. Owing to the lack of undertanding anid cooperation among the forwards, many
opportunities were lost and a congested quarter ended with both sides scoring 3 goals 1 pt.
Play in the second term was more even, with both teams settling down, the back lines being
prominent for the manher in which they checked the forwards. Parksides scored 3 pts. to Sunshine's
nil. The third quarter was a repetition of the first, the locals kicking 2-1 to their opponents' 1-1.
After a vigorous last term with rucks and back men closing up the play, an even game elided with
Sunshine winning by a point.
The outstanding feature was the way the opposing backmen retarded the forwards, as indicated
by the low scores. Sunshine: 5 goals 2 pts.; Parksides, 4 goals 7 pts.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 25 Jun 1943
*****
The last game of the competition will be played to-morrow against Parksides, and as this
combination is 2 points ahead of Braybrook keen interest will be taken in the result. Black knickers
will be worn, and tickets for players will be available at the ground from Mr. Scott, who will direct
members to the dressing room allotted.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 13 Aug 1943
*****
In the first semi-final to-morrow Braybrook will play Parksides again, on the Newport oval, and, with
the inclusion of Jackie Baker and Sam Stirling, who have both been injured, the team will certainly

have a moral advantage after its victory last week by 2 points. The scores were 10.11 to 9.15 in
Braybrook's favor. Players are requested to be early this week, and will wear black, knicks and have
the use of the home room.
BRAYBROOK FOOTBALL CLUB Eliminated from Final Series
To the surprise of most supporters and players, A grade team were soundly beaten by Parksides at
Newport last Saturday. Weather conditions and lack of training seemed to be the main reason for the
failure, because it was only in the last quarter that Parksides went away to win by 5 goals. Most of
our players' seemed to be out of touch, with the probable exception of Jackie Baker and Jack
Watters. The latter is to be congratulated on his consistently good form right through the year, and it
would not surprise if he were to make senior football.
In September 1943, Parkside played the ninth Grand Final in FDFL, however for the Kingsville it was
the first time lucky grand final game.
In the low-scoring game Kingsville won its first Premiership beating Parkside by 22 points.
Kingsville 6.12.48 d Parkside 3.8.26
AFL record 1943 Week 4 finals, 22 Sept. 1943

Parkside Football Club 1944 Season
Back Row: A. Moore, N. Colling, W. Crehan, J, Grubb, A, Clare
2nd Back: W. Dobbie, J. Bensch, P. Cameron, C. McLaren, N. Kercheval, H. Smith, K. Melvor, M. Ross,
K. Crehan
Middle: K. Edwards, A. Jess, B. Flack, K. ODonohue,R. Shaw, S. Fox, F. Walker, J. Bradley, R. Gwyann,
G. Quinton
2nd Front: J. Gardiner, H. Pascarl, C. Jewell, G. McKenna, P.E. Sainsbury, J. Williamson, R. Smith, D.
Rogers, L. Cheesman
Front: J. Johnson, J. Arnott, M. Cheesman, R. Deans, R. Glad
KING FOOTBALL REIGNS
Tomorrow, Saturday, will see the opening of the football season for the fifth time since the war
began-and the remarkable part of it all is that teams could mauster sufficient players, considering
the call of the services for young men of military age after Japan came into the war. Anyway it was
done, and, no doubt, public morale has been stimulated in consequence.
Sunshine Advocate,Fri 5 May 1944, Page 2

BRAYBROOK FOOTBALL C Grade's First Defeat
It took the excellent combination of Parkside C Grade to lower the dignity of our C team by soundly
defeating them last Saturday, under perfect condlitions. No excuses can be offered, and our chaps
will need to put their best foot forward to defeat this team later in the year. It was a very low scoring
game. The final scores were 5 goals 10 behinds to 3 goals 6 behinds.
Sunshine Advocate,Fri 16 June 1944, Page 3
*****
BRAYBROOK TEAMS WIN AGAIN
Rain spoilt what might have been an excellent game last Saturday, when Braybrobk A met the
formidable Parksides at the Yarraville Football, Ground. Parksides had beaten West Footscray the
previous week and the result of our game against the Black and Whites was keenly anticipated. From
the very first bounce Braybrook took the offensive and were never headed all day, winning by 4 goals
2 behinds. The final scores were 12.10 to 8.8. The team was evenly balanced, no player being very
outstanding, and with the inclusion of two or three more big men, who are injured, Braybrook looks
favorite for the premiership pennant.
Sunshine Advocate,Fri 23 June 1944, Page 3
Footcray 1944
(Footscray Wharf, Footscray City Band and Drummers of No. 107 Squadron)
*****
Playing at home Sunshine were no match for the strong Parkside team. Unable to cope with height
and weight of the bigger opponents, the locals were out classed in most departments with the
Parksiders winning by a comfortable margin. Scores 26.20 to 3.6.
Sunshine Advocate,Fri 21 July 1944, Page 3

*****
BRAYBROOK "A" MINOR PREMIERS
Braybrook "A" Grade clinched the minor premiership last Saturday by decisively defeating Parksides.
This victory placed the Red and Blacks four points clear of their opponents, and as the bye is played
this weekend, and four more points assured, Braybrook are minor premiers for 1944. Saturday's form
convinced the committee and supporters that the premiership is well within our grasp now, and the
players have only to keep playing on, train regularly and co-operate together, and another flag will
be ours. Last Thursday's pie night was an outstanding success, and a few of our very keenest
supporters have donated a similar entertainment to the players next Thursday, after training, so a
full muster is expected.
Sunshine Advocate,Fri 11 Aug 1944, Page 3
*****
BRAYBROOK F.C.
C Grade Eliminateed From Finals.
Weakened through injuries in the early stages of the final game against Parksides, Braybrook C
grade were defeated by 13 points after a thrilling struggle to overcome the handicap of 8 goals at
threequarter time. Two of Braybrook's leading players, Houlahan and Hlowie, were injured very early
in the game, and immediately Parksides sensed victory and raced away to a very big lead. At

threequarter time the local boys had a leeway of 8 goals to make up, and immediately on
commencing the final round the opposition booted two more goals and the game looked hopeless for
Braybroolk. At this moment the game took a remarkable turn and Braybrook took absolute control,
and the opposition seemed powerless. The captain, Ken Scott, seemed unbeatable. Bennie Ritchie
also was in the picture, and in the final 15 minutes eight straight goals were kicked, leaving the
opposition two goals one behind in front. Congratullations must certainly be given for the C grade's
lighting spirit and also for reaching the finals for 1944. This Saturday sees A grade meet Kingsville at
Spotswood in the second semi-final of their respective division, and a keen tussle is expected. We
have the visitors' room, and of course will wear white knickers.
1944 Grand Final Braybrook 7.7 (49) d West Footscray 5.18 (48)
Parksides player, S. Fox was the Footscray District League, Best and Fairest for 1944 season.
S. Fox

Braybrooks Golden Era
By April 1945, the military forces of Nazi Germany were in full retreat. The surrender of the German
forces was formally accepted on 8 May. This was designated Victory in Europe or VE Day.
Celebrations in Australia were subdued because the war against the Japanese was still going on.
Large celebrations were not appropriate while Australian troops were still fighting, and many others
were still prisoners of war in Japanese camps. One reader of the Argus complained about the lack of
VE Day celebrations in Melbourne:
Thank goodness we had the wireless to cheer us on Wednesday recording the joyousness in England.
Here it was more like a solemn funeral than a great victory achieved.
Japanese soldiers and civilians were preparing for a last-ditch defence of their mainland. America
dropped two newly developed atomic bombs on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki on 6 and 9
August 1945, with colossal destruction and loss of life. The use of these weapons brought the end of
the war in the Pacific. The Emperor of Japan announced his country's surrender on 15 August.
In Australia, Thursday 16 August was celebrated as Victory in the Pacific or VP Day. Authorities
were concerned that celebrations not get out of hand, and pubs were closed on the holiday, as they
had been on VE Day. However, joy still managed to break out. Crowds gathered in the streets, and
strangers danced together. Melbournes Chinese community called it VC Day for Victory in China
and set off fireworks. Australian sailors joined in helping them parade a ceremonial dragon.
http://ergo.slv.vic.gov.au/explore-history/australia-wwii/home-wii/victory-celebrations
Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day: Melbourne August 1945
Hillier summarizes the post-war years in FDFL,
The war was over and that saw renewed interest in the league and more players available; hence,
three clubs were readmitted, having been in recess due to the war. Essendon Districts and Footscray
and Yarraville Socials were elevated to A Grade. The league was back to a ten team A Grade, twelve
team B Grade and twelve team C Grade. Growth continued in 1947 with Maidstone, St. Albans,
Maribyrnong and Williamstown United joining, and ICI reforming. Sunshine Harvesters Social and
Newport CYMS both dropped out.

A golden era was about to dawn for the Braybrook Football Club with its second flag in 1944,
defeating West Footscray by one point in the Grand Final. Two new clubs joined B Grade; Sunshine
Harvester Social and Friendship Circle, which wisely changed its name to the Waratahs the following
season. Braybrook won the 1945 flag, Altona re-joined the competition and North Footscray
reformed.
Good Win Over Parkside
Braybrook visited the Footscray Park ground for the second match against their old rivals,
Parkside. After, a very even first quarter, Brbook's younger and much fitter side ran away to a very
handy lead. At half-time the scores were 7.11 to 5,6, In the second - half, Brook's players not only
stood up to the Parkside's renowned vigour, but returned it and still carried on with the game, as the
final scores indicated. Fiinal scores: 17.19 to 6.8.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 4 May 1945
*****
Flashing moves on both wings with lightning disposal of the ball when in trouble, kept Braybrook A
grade always in the ascendancy against Parkside. It was virtually a walkover. Parkside played like a
team only once -in the first ten minutes of the first quarter; Brooks is without a single passenger to
mar its excellent combination and balance. It has learnt the advantage of keeping the ball once one
of its players has received it. Scores: 20.14, 134 points; Parkside, 3.4, 22 pts.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 1 June 1945
Williamstown Chronicle recorded in April 1946 that, Hugh Torney, formerly of Essendon, has taken
up the coaching duties of the Parkside club in the Footscray League. He had his finest season in
1940, winning the Essendon Best and Fairest award and finishing second in the Brownlow Medal
count. His 24 Brownlow votes were at the time the most ever by a player not to win the medal.
Hugh Torney (1901 2000)

Sunshine Advocate, May, June 1946
*****
The A's decisively defeated Parkside last week in anything but football weather. With the scores
level at the start of the last quarter and a terrific gale favouring Parkside, it looked as if the 'Brooks
would have to fight hard to avert a defeat. However, showing brilliant form, a possible defeat was
turned into a brilliant win.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 26 July 1946
Sunshine Advocate, August, September 1946
In fact, Braybrook have won three premierships in a row, defeating West Footscray in the three
Grand Finals,
1944 Braybrook 7.7.49 5.18.48 West Footscray

At the end of the 1947 season, Parkside finished 7th on the ladder.
West Footscray finally has the "monkey off its back" after the 1947 grand final win against
Braybrook.
In one way it is pleasing West were premiers as it makes a double pennant, their junior team having
won the 'C' Grade honors earlier, and to equal Brook's performance, back in 1942. It is Braybrook's
privilege and pleasure to hand West congrati hlations and hohors after they have held them for three
consecutive seasons.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 19 September 1947, page 4
West Footscray 10.12.72 d. Braybrook 8.13.61
1948
In the immediate post-war era, Parkside Football Club had a period of adjustment to a new
constellation of forces within Footscray District League.
Parksiders had to wait the next five years to see the club playing in another Grand Final.
In the second semi-final Parkside defeated Sunshine.
The semi-final between Sunshine and Parkside was played at Hammer Reserve, Seddon, in warm
sunshine before a large crowd of supporters. The team was as follows: Murley, McGregor,
McFadgen; J. McKay, Park, Caddick; Drayton, L. Clark, R. Carlton; Winter, Harris, N. Carlton; Foxcroft,
Stainer, Simpson; Henderson, White, O'Brien; Emergencies, Roberts, Nuttall.
Pocock's injured hand prevented him from taking his place in the side, where he would have been an
asset in a game played to suit his vigorous style. Winning the toss Parkside had first use of a slight
breeze, and right from the first bounce it was apparent that the game wasn't going to be a one-sided
parlour game.

Encouraged by a strong team of supporters players on both sides rose to the occasion and lifted the
standard of football well above that witnessed at home and home games. Played at a terrific tempo
considering the hot day, play seesawed up and down until Parksides opened the scoring with a goal,
followed by another one soon after.
Sunshine retaliated with a beautiful running shot by Norm Carlton for full points but Parks got two
more before Les Winter goaled for Sunshine.
Scores Parkside, 4.3; Sunshine, 2.2.
Dominating the ruck ; Henderson repeatedly had the ball on its way to the forwards only to have it
returned by stubborn Parkside defenders. Getting plenty of drive from the centre line where Ray
Carlton, Clark and Drayton had the call over their opponents, Sunshine had plenty of opportunities to
score but poor kicking brought only behinds.
Clever understanding and backing Up between Ray and Norm Carlton saw the latter raise both flags
again. A long punt kick by Cec. Parks, from the centre of the ground, deserved more than a point.
Half time scores: Parkside 6.5; Sunshine, 3.7 .
Sixteen points down after the interval Sunshine met with several set-backs, with O'Brien, Clark and
Henderson in the trainers hands within a few minutes; Parksides made the most of their loose men
and rammed home three goals.
Stainer and Simpson replied for Sunshine.
After having umpire Clark officiate four times during the season, players were confident that they
could adapt themselves to his particular style of umpiring and consequently were confused and
bewildered by some of his interpretations during the third quarter, and Sunshine had a lapse from
which they failed to recover. It was definitely a winning quarter for Parkside by adding 5.1 to 2,1.
Scores at three-quarter time:
Parkside, 11.9 to Sunshine, 5.8
Commencing the last quarter six goals behind Sunshine were determined to make up the leeway.
Roberts replaced White, who retired with an injured knee and added some pen to a tiring ruck. Goals
to Stainer, Foxcroft and Henderson kept supporters on their toes; dogged defensive play by Caddick,
Mc Gregor, Park and McKay, kept the Parksides down to 1.3. The bell rang giving Parkside victory by
25 points. Although Sunshine played their best football for the season the better team won.
Final scores:
Parkside 12-12; (84 pts.) Sunshine: 8-11 (59 pts.)
Sunshine Advocate, 3 Sep 1948

Parkside continued with a superb form into the following week.
This article from Sunshine Advocate shines light on the Grand Final game in 1948.
BRAYBROOK DEFEATED BY PARKSIDE
The semi-final displays of Parksides did not warrant very strong belief that they could play
premiership football to win this seasons pennant. The day was perfect and the game attracted a
large crowd to Footscray oval. Parksides were first to break through and scored two quick goals and
one point before Brooks found their feet to register two points. Very little separated the teams, both
playing hard to gain a break. Parks were keeping a few points in front and a close check as kept on
Brooks key men, enabling them to lead by 7 points at the first change.
The second quarter opened somewhat similar to the first, Parks again first, to add the points. Soon
after Brooks opening up their game, with Trueman in real spirited style carrying the ball from the
wide wing defeating several opponents to add a single-but not before being man handled from
several defenders, His effort deserved better results. Now inspired the locals came again to meet
solid opposition and only a slight lead to the half-time interval.
Straight talking from Ellis had its effect and the defence playing close and equally as hard kept Parks
to a limited score in the third term. If Parksides were to win, this was their chance as the slight breeze
had freshened. Brooks defenders took and gave hard knocks to keep their relentless opponents down
to a 5 point lead at the end of the third quarter.
At this stage it seemed a foregone conclusion for a Braybrook victory; 5 points down and the use of
the slight breeze but alas the players were being beaten for pace with the possible exception of
Trueman, who again playing single-handed, ran his way through the defence to receive little support.
Martin, having the edge on Calvin, and K. Scott, were playing on but Parkside gained the break to
score two quick goals.
Had Braybrook scored with the opportunities they had, a different result may have resulted. Halfway
through the last term it was apparent Brooks were lacking in condition; rarely did they get the ball
over the centre. For many seasons Braybrook have been known for their will to win and here with the
Parks they found a team their equal and in better condition. Youth was taking its toll.
Nearing the close of a hard fast game Parks went ahead as is the case with any team with their tails
up and getting the run of the ball; little can be done to counter such confidence. Brooks hitting hard
with shoulders and hips found the counter methods of Parks much against the true interests of the
game, as several foul incidents marred the full credit of our opponents victory. Harris and Martin
were subjected to rabbit-killers on several occasions, and the kicking of Ellis in the face was unjust
and the Parks victory would have been hailed with better feelings.
Parksides performance to win 15 games on end, including a semi-final, final and grand final is a
remarkable achievement. This is their first premiership since 1936 and Braybrook offer
congratulations to them.
Final scores:

Parksides; 10-10 (70 pts.) d. Braybrook; 6-8 (44 pts.)
Parkside Football Club - Premiers 1948
5th row: W. Grumley, K. Gordon, C.Harley, J. Boulter, D. Rogers, N. Colling, R. Charles, W. Dobbie
4th row: T. Eason, A. Burns, D. Williams, H. Smith, A. Peart, S. Waghorne, L. Lane, F. Purrs, A,
Harrison
3rd row: E. Pritchard, J, Devine, E. Clare, B. McGrath, L. Callcott, I. Lekovich, C. Waghorne, W.
Watkins, R. Owynn, G. Quinton
Sitting: H. Pascarl, J. Gardiner, R.C. Shaw, J. Galvin, H.M. Bryce, J. Williamson, B. Lane, W. Annond, J.
Grubb
Front: W. Farrow, K. Annond

There was a real sense of optimism and commitment at the club in the post-war period, following
the unprecedented experience of 12 years premiership drought. As you might anticipate, this great
side has won another premiership in 1949.
Sunshine Suffers First Defeat
FAILING to produce the good form of the previous week, Sunshine "A" Grade on Saturday were
easily defeated by last year's premiers, Parksides.
Sunshine were without the services of Ron Pocock, Alec O'Brien and Bernie Bell and the loss of these
players was keenly felt. Opening the first term with advantage of a slight breeze, Sunshine managed
to score three goals, but should have converted more of the opportunities to score. Parksides scored
two goals but this was only a forerunner of what was to come.
Getting plenty of drive from a winning centre line Parks continually attacked in the second term and
Sunshine's half back line lacked the stability to keep them out. Parksides' centre half forward was on
the top of his form and his spectacular marking and long kicking topped off many attacks.
By half time the score was 8-6 to 4-3 against Sunshine and the position desperate.
Positional changes were made in an endeavour to effect a change in the game and these were on the
whole successful. Doug Caddick going to centre half back effectively silenced Parksides' star forward,
and Frank Simpson gave more drive from the centre although his absence from roving was
noticeable. Sunshine had the better of play in this quarter but ill directed kicks on the forward line
failed to finish off many of the advances.
In the last quarter Shine battled hard but Parks with a good display of pacy, play on football ran out
easy winners.
Final scores: Parksides: 12-13; 85 pts. Sunshine: 5-10; 40 pts.

Reasons for the defeat could be summarised as: Lack of drive from the centre and around the packs,
an unstable half back line and inability to make the most of opportunities on the forward line.
Sunshine should profit by the lessons learned and improve in the next few weeks. Parksides were
playing well; if anything a little too well for so early in the season, and would have beaten most
teams' in the competition.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 13 May 1949, page 4
*****
With half the season gone, the fight for the final four in the Footscray District League is now on in
earnest. At present in "A' Grade, Parkside, Sunshine and Braybrook hold a clear advantage and need
only to retain present form to be assured of a place at the end of the season. The final place appears
to be a light between West Footscray, I.C.I. and Spotswood.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 24 June 1949, page 4
*****
Braybrook Lose by Eight Goals to Parkside
The game played at Footscray Park between Parkside (leaders in the District League) and Braybrook
(3rd on the list) resulted in a comfortable win for Parks, after a very even first half. The scores were
level at half time, but Parkside with brilliant marking by their forward division scored heavily in the
second half and holding Braybrook goalless, won convincingly. Parkside: 14-9; 93 points Braybrook:
6-7; 43 points.
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 8 July 1949, page 4
*****
Sunshine Just Fails in Strenuous Match
THOUGH playing some of its best football for the season, Sunshine faltered at a crucial stage and
went down to Parksides last Saturday at Sewiyn Park.
The game was hard and fast and the pressure was on from start to finish. As usual Sunshine was slow
to start, and it appeared in the first quarter as though Parkside would not experience much trouble.
The good play of the locals backmen kept the score down to Parksides, 3-4 to Sunshine's 2-1 at the
change over.

A different Sunshine was seen in the second quarter. The whole team operated as one man and with
a winning ruck supplying the drive Parkside were temporarily disorganised. Seven goals were added
by the locals in their best football for the season.
With the scores, Sunshine 9-2 to Parkside 5-6 at half time, it appeared as though the locals had only
to register two or three goals in the third term to make the game safe. This they failed to do
however, despite a number of shots at goal. Though having an equal share of the play Sunshine could
manage only five points to 2-2, leaving them 11 points up at three-quarter time.
Expectations that the last quarter would be a thriller were fully realised. Both teams hurled
themselves into the play in a desperate bid for victory. Getting great drive from across the centre
Parks hammered away at the locals defence and eventually broke through to take the lead. Sunshine
fought back but could not find the big sticks and Parkside ran out winners by 10 points.
There was little to choose between the teams. On the day each team had its periods of ascendancy.
Parkside are to be congratulated on their stamina and fighting spirit. The locals worst periods were
at the commencement and in the closing stages of the game. Losing two of its best high marks in
Bernie Ball and Doug Caddick before three quarter time was a big handicap.
Parksides: 10-13: 73 points Sunshine: 9-9: 63 points
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 29 July 1949, page 4
*****
Last Match Will Decide Final Four
The final four in "A" Grade of the F.D.L. hinges on the result of the last round of matches to be
played tomorrow. Vital matches are the Sunshine v. West Footscray and Spotswood v.Braybrook
fixtures. "A" Grade:
Parkside, 60 (152.2)
Braybrook, 56 (135.9)
West Footscray, 54 (146.7)
Sunshine, 52 (137. 9)
Spotswood, 48 (136.8)
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 19 August 1949, page 4
*****

Semi-Finals Start To-morrow
Semi finals in the three senior grades of the F.1D.L, will be played tomorrow.. Matches ai'e as
follows: "A" Grade Sunshine. v Parklside at B3raybrook. Braybrook v West Footscray at Spotswood. "
Sunshine Advocate, Friday 26 August 1949, page 4
Sunshine Soundly Defeated
Unable to stop a third quarter burst by Parkside, which resulted in eight goals, Sunshine were easily
defeated in the semi final played at. Braybrook last Saturday. The first half was evenly contested and
at half time Sunshine had a lead of seven points. Holding Parkside in the first term Sunshine produced
some good football in the second to score five goals. A feature of this half was the play of Alan
Stainer at full forward.
Losing in the ruck and across the centre Sunshine found extreme pressure placed on the back line in
the third term. Though battling hard, the backmen eventually wilted and Parkside aided by the run of
the ball slammed on goal after goal. The ball rarely crossed the centre giving Sunshine's forwards
little chance to reply. Facing a big deficit, Sunshine played the match right out in the last quarter and
reduced the lead but were soundly beaten by a better team.
Final scores: Parksides: 15-12; 102 points Sunshine: 10-9; 69 points.
*****
Sunshine: 8-4; 52 points d.Braybrook: 5-13; 43 points
Sunshine has now to meet Parksides in the grand final to be played at Footscray football ground
tomorrow. Players are confident that with plentjr of vocal support they can take the flag.
*****
Sunshine Just Fails in Grand Final
AFTER giving Parksides a four goal start Sunshine made a determined effort and had the premiership
almost in their grasp last Saturday.
Failure to ram home attacks in the last quarter when within a point of their opponents was costly to
the locals. Parksides got the breaks at the right time and snatched victory in a match which had
spectators on their toes until the final bell.

As usual Sunshine was slow to start and Parksides had kicked four goals before Alan Stainer marked
and kicked truly. In the first five minutes Des McGregor collided heavily with an opponent and
sustained severe concussion. His absence meant a reshuffle of team positions. Having use of the wind
in the second quarter, Sunshine infused more life into their play and overhauled their opponents. Don
Henderson ran into an open goal just before half time but his shot hit the post to make the difference
one point at the interval.
For the crucial third quarter several changes in positions were made. In the light of subsequent
events the wisdom of these can be doubted. Ron Pocock, who was doing well at centre half-back,
was shifted to a flank; Bill Searle to centre and Bernie Bell to centre half-back. Lloyd Clark went on
the ball.
Parksides were more accurate in attack for the term and finished the quarter with a lead of 17 points.
Sunshine set about reducing the leeway in determined fashion. The ball was on the forward line for
some time before Frank Simpson scouted well to kick two majors. Play then see-sawed back and forth
with both teams striving for the winning break. Only a few points: separated the teams when Alan
Stainer appeared to mark in front of goal but it was disallowed and the ball swept away.
Sunshine just could not break through and getting the run of the ball Parksides stormed forward to
goal and clinch the game. Sunshines effort was better than most supporters expected and needed
only the assistance of a bit of luck to have gained the day.
Final scores:
Sunshine: 7-8; 50 points - Parksides: 9-7; 61 points

Back: J. Grubb (com.), R. Charles (com.), J. Boulter (goal ump.), K. Crehan (com.), R. Cameron (com),
W. Dobbie (com.), H. Richardson (VP)
3rd Row: J. Devine, B. Murray, S. Waghorne, A. Burns, H. Smith, R. Malbon, K. Gordon, J. Ewans, A.
Jowett
2nd Row: E. Pritchard (1st Aid), N. Colling, R. Shaw, B. McGrath, B. Lane, F. Galvin, R. Gregory, A.
Harrison, J. Iles, G. Quinton, (1st Aid)
Sitting: J. Newman (com.), J. Gardiner (V. President), A. Stafford, J. Galvin (Capt-Coach), H.M. Bryce
(President), J. Williamson (V. Captain), E. Clare, W.A.Annand (Sec.), B. Voice (com.)
Front: J. Taylor (1st Aid), J. Higgins, K. Annand (Mascot), R. Evans (Bdy Ump)
S. Waghorne
S. Waghorne was a leading goalkicker in competition for 1949 season, scoring 65 goals.

A strong rivalry between Parkside and Braybrook delivered a close and intense encounter at the
start of the fifth decade in the last century.
Braybrook Lose by 1 pt.
Braybrook just failed to defeat Parkside at home last Saturday.
With a high wind blowing straight down the ground the backlines of both
teams were hard pressed when their opponents were favoured with the wind and negative tactics of
forcing the ball out,were used by both sides.
The game was spoilt as a spectacle but never lacked excitement and fire. Neither side could gain a
clear advantage and at the last change, 'Parks had only a two goal lead. It seemed as if Braybrook
could win, but Parksides packed their back-line-at least 15 men were defendingmaking scoring
almost impossible and the Brooks failed by 1 point only.
Parksidee: 4-11; 35 points d. Braybrook: 4-10; 34 points
Sunshine Advocate, 28 July 1950
*****
Finals Played Tomorrow: Parkside v Seddon at Footscray Oval.
Sunshine Advocate ,Fri 1 Sep 1950
On September 2nd in the 1950 preliminary final. Seddon defeated Parkside by 19 points in an
extremely low scoring game.
Seddon 4.13.37 d. Parkside 2.6.18
B. Murray (Parkside) and K. Cooke (West Footscray) shared competitions the Best and Fairest award
for 1950 season.
B. Murray

Parkside Football Club - A Grade (Minor Premiers) & C Grade - Season 1950
G. Stafford (Trainer), B. McGrath (com.), R. Gregory, J. Harley, A. Jowett, G. Hyland, A. Harrison, T.

Eason, W. Grumley (com.), J. Boulter (Goal Ump.)
3rd Row: C. Harley (com.), A. Clare (V. President), R. Malbon, R. Power, A. Dagg, W. McMillan, W.
Clifford, B. Matthews, K. Crehan (com.), G. Quinton (1st Aid)
Sitting: W. Dobbie (com.), F. Currie (V. President), L. Sellman (V.C.C-Grade), R. Grove

(Captain/Coach), H. Pascarl (V. President), A. Burns (V.C. A-Grade), I. Collins, J. Gardiner (V.
President), W. Annand (Secretary)
Front: J.Devine, J. Williams, J. Higgins, C. Sargent
Barkly Street, Footscray (1950)

Trophies for the 1950 Season
*****
Best and fairest: J. Devine
Most consistent: A. Clare
Most improved: F. Walker
Most serviceable: C. Cooke
Most unselfish: R. Gregory
Best 1st year: C. Sargent
Best clubman: R. Charles
Best utility: H. Smith
Attendance: J. Higgins
Boundary Umpire: K. Crehan
Goal umpire: J. Boulter
Time keeper: W. Dobbie
First Aid: G. Quinton
*****
Financial Statement for the 1950 season.
Secretary reported
486, 50p, 2p
Expenses: 141, 90p, 1p
Credit balance: 334, 16p, 1p
Commitment: 137, 20p, 0
Balance: 207, 14p, 2p
Mr Harrison reported on property that had a good year. One football missing, all jumpers in order.

FDFL 1951 season opened on April 21st.
FDL Notes
There was a good attendance at Hanmer Reserve last week when Seddon, the "A" Grade premiers
of 1950, were at home to Maidstone, 1950 'B' Grade premiers. Prior to the match Seddon's first F.D.L.
pennant was unfurled, Messrs Constable (chairman F.D.L.), and Dunne (F.D.L. secretary) being
present on behalf of the League. Mrs Meikle, mother of Seddon's president performed the unfurling
ceremony. A similar function was held at Spotswood where the 'C' grade pennant for 1950, won by
Spotswood was unfurled by Miss Sutton, daghter of Spotswood's popular president, who is also the
father of Footscray captain, Charlie Sutton. A feature of the opening round was the difficulty of clubs
in fielding full teams but this is usual each year and should be overcome in the next few weeks. The
'A" grade matches were ,fairly even and some interesting games should be seen this year.
The top four clubs after the home and away season were Spotswood, West Footscray, Parkside and
Seddon.
Parkside was into the FDFL Division A semi-final after beating Seddon in the preliminary final by
14points. Parkside 10.13 73 d. Seddon 8.11 59.
At the same time, in the "C" grade preliminary final Parkside defeated Seddon by 33 points.
Parkside 11.12 78 d. Seddon 6.09 45.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 31 Aug & 8 Sep, 1951
Defeating Spotswood in the preliminary final, Parkside booked their spot in the grand final decider.
Preliminary Finals:
"A" grade: Parkside 13.11 89 d. Spotswood 6.10 46
Sunshine Advocate, 15th September, 1951

"A" grade Grand Final between West Footscray and Parkside was played on 9 September at the
Footscray Oval.
In its twelth FDFL grand final, Parkside won its seventh premiership after a closely contested game.
Parkside 14.8.92 d. West Footscray 12.9.81
Parkside Football Club Premiers 1951
Back Row: H. Hodgson (com.), K. Crehan (com.), L. Cheesman (com.), G. Moloney, B. Bradley (trnr),
F. Walker, C. Cooke, W. Farrow (com), L. Turner (com)
3rd Row: A. Harrison (com), R. Power, H. Smith, B. Matthews, J. Neylon, J. McBain, W. Bugden, O.
Clifford, A. Burns, G. Qienton (1st Aid)
Sitting: W.A. Annand (Sec.), R. Charles, J. Considine, S. Waghorne (Captain/Coach), H. Pryce

(President), J. Devine (V. Captain), R. Shaw, H. Pascarl, B. Voice (Treasurer)
Front: H. Darcy (mascot), M. Harvey, V. Wilson, C. Sargent, R. Howell, C. Waghorne, K. Annand

(mascot)

Goal-kickers for 1951 Season (final)
Waghorne (Parkside) 67; Barker (Nth F'scray) 48; Massey (F & Y) 34; Kelly(B'brook) 33; Sims (F & Y)
31: Stark (ICI) 30; Hansen (Seddon) 30
S. Waghorne
In the 1951 Spotswood wins C grade (U18s)Grand Final premiership over Parkside.
Presentation night at Footscray Town Hall.
Tuesday 23rd October 1951
(Rental of hall 3, 30 p., 3 p.)
On the count of vote:
J. Devine 35 votes, R. Howell 34 votes and C. Sargent 31 points
*****
Most consistent: R. Howell
Most improved: B. Matthews
Most serviceable: C. Sargent
Most unselfish: R. Power

Best 1st year: J. Considine
Best clubman: W. Farrow
Best utility: E. Walker
Attendance at training : S. Waghorne
Boundary Umpire: J. Boulter
Goal umpire: J. Lane
Time keeper: W. Dobbie
First Aid: G. Quinton
Outstanding Service: R. Cameron
Photos to be taken at Hilda Mitchell Studios at 10 am Sunday, 9 September 1951.
Hillier reveals that during the 50s FDFL decided,
to ban players who were not in the Bulldogs residential zone from playing because Footscray
Football Club was financially subsidising the competition. As a result, in 1950 the competition shrunk
from thirty-nine teams to thirty-three.
The structure of the competition was changed dramatically because of the Footscray allegiance. New
teams came from Yarraville Boys Club and Williamstown High School Old Boys, while Newport and
Sunshine defected to the Metropolitan League.
South Footscray disbanded and Essendon Districts attempt at entry into the League was not
accepted as most of its players were residentially bound to the Essendon VFL team.
Seddon won its first flag by defeating Spotswood, and a young man by the name of Ted Whitten won
the leagues Under 18 Best and Fairest award; the next year he began his illustrious career in the VFL.
The changes continued in 51, with F & Y Socials withdrawing during the seasonas well as
Maidstone A, Seddon B and Yarraville Boys Bmeaning there were fourteen walkovers in various
grades. After a forgettable season the league rules were amended to restrict affiliates to a maximum
of fourteen clubs, as well as the requirement that all clubs field a second team of Under 18s.
History of the WRFL/FDFL / written and compiled by Kevin Hillier, 2007

Braybrook was successful in two premierships in 1952 season.
St. Albans Down to Parksides
St. Albans last Saturday went down to the improved Parksides by 12 points. In the first quarter it
was apparent that it was not to be St. Albans' day when the ball twice bounced through from kicks a
long way out to give full points to Parksides. This state of affairs was to exist throughout the whole
game. Although St. Albans played really, well, spectators saw the ball refusing to go anywhere else
but through the big sticks for Parksides while St. Albans missed repeatedly from deliberate shots
within easy range. The final scores. were Parksides 11 goals 3 behinds to St. Albans 8 goals 9 points.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 25 Jul 1952
*****
Braybrook Gets Double Chance
BY defeating Parksides last Saturday, Braybrook gained second place and a double chance in the
finals. The semi-final will be played against Seddon this Saturday atNewport.
In Saturday's game, all the Braybrook players played well. Kinder (best on ground), Kelly and Comini
were a little ahead of the rest. Final scores: Braybrook: 16-16. Parksides: 11-2
*****
BRAYBROOK football club had a great day last Saturday winning both premierships in the Footscray
District League. The result in both games was very close and the game showed the fighting. qualities
of the Braybrook teams.
Final scores were: Braybrook: 7 - 9. D. Seddon: 7 - 2.
1952 Grand Final: Under-18's
Braybrook's under-18 team finished on to defeat Parksides in a hard-fought game. Owing to

stoppages through rough play the last quarter lasted 35 minutes. After being nine points down at
three-quarter time, Braybrook fought back against the wind to win by four points.
Final scores: Braybrook: 11 - 16. Parksides: 11 - 12.
Sunshine Advocate, Fri 19 September, 1952

1952 FDFL Grand Finals Programme (U18s)
Parkside Football Club Season 1952: 2nd Eighteen Runners Up and Minor Premiers
Back Row: V. Devlyn, A. Croft, K. Treynor, H. Hodgson, J. Buckley, R. Coats, C. Edwards3rd Row: K.
Doran, P. Marshall, M. Cross, L. Coon, A. Pickering, F. Crane, A. Boulter, B. Leonard
2nd Row: W. Grumley (Goal Ump.), H. Pascarl (Mgr.), J. McDonald, G. Green (V.Captain), H. Bryce
(President), N. OConnor, A. Gardiner, E. OKefee (Trainer), K. Crehan (Coach)
Front: R. Hodgson, B. Toogood, R. OKeefe

Kevin Hillier exposes an interesting detail from 1952 season.
Bob Ducrow, who played at Spotswood and Newport, believes the 1952 final four was shrouded in
controversy:
It came down to the last home and away game and Newport and St. Albans played the last home
game at Newportwhoever won went in the four.This is where the drama started. Halfway through
the season Parkside and West Footscray were to play below the gardens there at Footscray, not on
the ground where they usually playedit was underwater so there was no game. So because it made
a difference to the final four they voted to play it on the Sunday after the last home and away game.
As it turned out, the only way they both could stay in the four was if it was a draw. I was at the game
and I remember thinking there was something wrong in this last quarter. It didnt happen then, you
see them today and theyre kicking their football across the ground and back the other way and
thats what these two sides were doing. They got the scores level and then neither side wanted to
score.
Williamstown Chronicle verifies the validity of Ducrows recollections of that, rather bizarre event.
Although winning by 35 pts. Newport moved into third place on percentage over Parkside. But a
replay of a match between Parkside and West Footscray last Sunday ended in a draw, placing
Newport equal with West Footscray, but of the four on percentage.
Williamstown Chronicle, 29 Aug 1952 Page 6
At the end of the 1952 season J. Devine who represented A grade players informed committee
members that he was satisfied with the the teams effort. It was a grand effort . More than
satisfied with new players and advices they are a fine bunch of players and can look forward to next
season with great confidence. (19/09/1952)

Parkside Football Club Seniors - 1952 Season
Back Row: W. Annand (Secretary), O. Conn, E. Walker, B. Kelly, H. Bryce (President), B. Matthews, B.
Daley, I. Martin, R. Shaw, L. Watt, B. Blovham (Trainer)
Middle Row: G. Qienton (First Aid), H. Richardson (V. President), C. Cooke, E. Clarr, J. Devine
(Captain/Coach), J. Considine, R. Power, C. Sargent, W. Trestrail
Front Row: W. Farrow, C. Waghorne, C. Conn, I. Williams, N. Coats, R. Charles (Soc. Sec.)
1952 Best and Fairest Players (Votes)
1. E. Walker 27 votes
2. W. Trestrail 26 votes
3. J. Considine 22 votes
4. O. Conn 22 votes
5. C. Cooke 20 votes
6. J. Devine 20 votes

*****
Best and fairest: E. Walker
Most consistent: J. Considine
Most improved: N. Coats
Most serviceable: W. Trestrail
Best 1st year: M. Hawkins

Herb Pascarl remembers that,
In 1948 or 49, Parkside Football Club, with permission from Footscray Council built their first club
rooms. On the same place where our present pavilion is now were two long sheds used for Footstray
Park equipment and mowers. These two sheds were open on one side and faced each other, so
workers from Parkside Football Club set about modifying one of these sheds and with
weatherboards, concreting, plumbing, etc., myself, Ron Charles, Jack Considine and apprentices from
Vic Railways where I worked, with a lot of hard work, we managed to build our first club rooms which
were very good for those times with change rooms, toilets, showers, etc.
Unfortunately, we only used them for a few years because about 1951, the Club, under the then
President Mr. Harry Bryce, started what we called Footscray Boys or Youth Club of which the same
Mr. Harry Bryce was President and he insisted that the Boys Club ran the Parkside Football Club. This
the Parkside Football Club Committee would not agree to, and by the next season, the rooms were
given to the Boys Club.
Parkside Boys Club
With the idea of bringing the best out of the boys of Footscray and making good citizens of them
steps to form a Parkside Boys Club were taken at a meeting in the Anglers Hall in July, 1953. It was
emphasized that although the club would bear the name Parkside it would not be open only to
boys from the football club. The new club is accommodated at the Henry Turner Memorial Reserve.
John Lack in his book, A History of Footscray writes that,
Youth clubs were flourishing.. Stan D'Altera established the Yarraville Boys' Club during the war to
occupy lads whose parents were often absent on shift work, the Social and Educational Club bought
Trimble's Hall in 1947, and organised an extensive sports program for boys and girls: the Y.M.C.A.
Youth Centre opened at Kingsville in 1951: and six years' work by the West Footscray Recreational
League culminated in the establishment of the Youth Centre in Essex Street in 1953, the same year
that saw the Parkside Boys' Club established. Such groups and clubs catered for several thousand
young people by the mid-1950s, partly in an attempt to counter widespread vandalism.
Lack, John, History of Footscray, North Melbourne Hargreen Publishing in conjunction with the City
of Footscray, 1991, p.343
Footscray Youth Club (today)

Footscray 1953
In the 1953 Grand Final Seddon 5.8.38 defeated Newport 2.7.19

Excerpts from minutes of the general committee meetings in 1953.
Mr Devine for A Grade (team) reported that the foodball season was enjoyable and expressed his
gratitude to all players takin part. It was unfortunate for the club that it could not retain good
players due to injuries and National Service Training
**
Best and Fairest player for A Grade was C. Cooke with 13 points. Runner up was J. Considine 12
points.
*****
Best and fairest: C. Cooke
Most consistent: I. Martin
Best utility: J. Devine
Most improved: K. Doran
Most serviceable: P. Marshall
Most unselfish: F. Lang
Best 1st year: J. Walker
Attendance training: R. Power
Excerpts from minutes of the social committee meetings in 1953.
Moved by C. Cooke, seconded by Mr Annand that we obtain from former secretary all material held
by him and same to be left at Mr OKeefe residence.
Mr OKeefe moved, B. Power seconded that the ladies run a competition at each home match of
both, the 1st & 2nd and Eighteenes.
It was moved by Mr Noonan, seconded by Mr Edwards that permission be obtained from the general
committee to hold a house party, also to run a dance in the near future.
Moved Mr Ross, seconded Mr Prentice that a picture night be held and the matter be left in the
hands of the social secretary.
Nominations for Presidents

Mr Annand was nominated by Mr Prentice seconded by Mr Edwards. No more nominations.
Mr Annand was duly elected President of the social club.
Members Present
Mr Annand, Mr Prentice, Mr Noonan, Mr OKeefe, Mr C. Edwards, Mr Ross, Mr Cooke, Mr Power, Mr

Cheeseman, Mr K. Edwards and Mr Johnson.
12th March 1953
*****
Mr OKeefe reported the booking of Anglers Hall for dance on Wednesday Night, the 29th April. The
booking of the orchestra be left in the hands of Mrs Ross.
MovedMr Cooke, seconded Mr OKeefe that the Federal Hall be booked for a Cabaret Ball on Friday
24th July.
Balance Sheet Season 1953

On two occasions during the 1950s, Footscray Football Club expressed a strong interest in singing
Parkside junior player, half forward Max Cross.
Joh Lord, is a life long member o ParksideFootball Club, recently mentioning that Max Cross was the
best player he ever saw for Parkside.
Jack Cannon wrote for Argus in 1952,
WAITING TO SEE MAX
Footscray F.C. officials are anxiously awaiting the first training appearance of a highly rated full
forward recruit on Tuesday.
He is Max Cross, who kicked more than 100 goals in the Footscray District last season. Cross, who is a
solidly built young player, could not turn out to train this week because of a slight hand injury.
If Cross lives up to his high reputation he may help solve the forward weakness, which was so
expensive for Footscray last season.
Another impressive new-comer who trained at Footscray last night was Stan Warden, a ruggedly
built defender from Parkside club.
Argus, 6 March 1952, page 8

Again, Argus reported on Footscrays interest in Cross, this time in 1955.
Particular interest was shown by Footscray officials last night in the form of Max Cross, half-
forward, from Parkside, a district junior side.
Cross, who is expected to develop into a valuable player, won the best and fairest award in the
Footscray thirds in in 1953, and later showed out when he played a few games with the seconds.
He then returned to his junior side, but since his last appearance he has developed considerably.
Two others from the Parkside team also was closely watched. They were J. Carlton, half forward, who
is only 17; and D. Kelly, 18.
Argus, 18 March 1955, page 27
Footscray have every reason to be pleased with the form of young Max Cross, who since his
promotion to the senior side has never failed his team. His clever marking and remarkable accuracy
in front of goal have played a major part in the Bulldogs' successes. He kicked five goals from six
shots last week, and that probably swung the balance in Footscray's favour.
Footscray have a good full-forward in Max Cross. He leads well, has a good pair of hands and is
fairly accurate. If the Bulldogs make the finals they could be in the happiest position of all clubs as far
as the full-forward post is concerned. Two years ago, when they won their first V.F.L. pennant, it was
Jack Collins who starred at full-forward. He kicked 7.4 in the Grand Final.
The Football record, VFL 1956 Season
Max loved footy, but he also took too much of a liking to socialise with a beer . Despite his
undisputed talent and leading the goal scoring, Crosss star faded quickly into obscurity.
Max Cross (11 July 1934 7 March 1985) was an Australian rules footballer who played with
Footscray in the Victorian Football League (VFL).
Cross, a Parkside recruit, was Footscray leading goal-kicker in the 1956 VFL season, his first. He didnt
come into the team until round five and on debut kicked five goals, against South Melbourne. His
season tally of 52 goals included six in the finals series, four of them in Footscrays semi-final win
over Geelong. Only St Kildas Bill Young kicked more goals in the VFL that year, with only four more
goals than Cross.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Cross

James Lovett (1936) John Sharp (1936)
John Sharp played for Parkside in their first historic premiership in the FDJFL. He was the Captain of
the 1933 Premiership side. In 1937 he left the club to umpire in FDFL and the Victorian League,
mostly in the country. He served with the Army during World War II (1941- 1945).

Parkside Football Clubs history is characterized by toleration and inclusiveness. In his short letter he
wrote to Parksides Bruce Dolphin in 1981, John Sharp desperately asked us to remember that
Parkside fought against racism and injustice when it was institutionalized in many segments of the
society.
Parkside Captain and multiple premiership player remembers,
I can relate this story; Parksides (Black and White) are not racist. In the 1936 Premier Side is one
James Lovett, a full blood Australian. During this game a member of the opposition decided that
Jimmy required a little physical attention and after applying the same made aware of the fact that
Jimmy had seventeen white Australian mates. ~ John Sharp (21 October, 1981, Point Lonsdale,
Victoria)
Premiers 1936
To contextualize and to understand the history of race relations in Australia, in the 1930s we need to
remind ourselves that in:
1934; Under the Aborigines Act, Aboriginal people can apply to cease being Aboriginal and have
access to the same rights as whites.

1935; The introduction of the Infants Welfare Act (Tasmania) is used to remove Indigenous children
on Cape Barren Island from their families.
1936; Western Australia Aborigines Act is amended to permit Aboriginal people to be taken into
custody without trial or appeal and to prevent them from entering prescribed towns without a
permit.
1937; Assimilation policy - Aboriginal Welfare - Conference of Commonwealth and State Authorities
called by the federal government, decides that the official policy for some Aboriginal people is
assimilation policy. Aboriginal people of mixed descent are to be assimilated into white society
whether they want to be or not, those not living tribally are to be educated and all others are to stay
on reserves.
https://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/history/aboriginal-history-timeline-1900-
1969#axzz4hlkH35QS
At the same time, in September 1936 when James Lovett stood against racism and injustice together
with his Parkside mates, proudly wearing the black and white jumpers, the others, powerful and rich
enjoyed in another display of glamour and bigotry proving again that racism is just a mask for greed.
CROWD'S INTEREST IN "UNCIVILISED"
Gala Premiere
"Sydney grows more like London every day," said a travelled woman, as she forced her way through
the flood-lit crowds to the foyer of the Embassy Theatre last night for the gala premiere of
Uncivilised." "Why, I even heard over the air before I left home a description of the people arriving at
the theatre."
A STRIKING FIGURE
Actors who witnessed the screening of their film performance included Miss Marcelle Marney, a
striking picture in a frock and sari of black sheer, covered with large gold coin spots, wide gold
bracelets, and gold kid sandals; and Mr. Ashton Jarry, Mr. James Raglan, "The Flying Doctor," was
accompanied by Mrs. Raglan, and he was snatched for a moment from the crowd to speak into the
microphone.
The Acting Premier (Mr. Bruxner) was accompanied by Mrs. Bruner, who wore an elegant frock of
black tailored velvet, and Mr. and Mrs. John Bruxner. Mrs. Hector Clayton wore a frock of black
pleated chiffon, and entertained Mrs. Malcolm McCormick, who covered her black gown with a white

satin mandarin coat: and Miss Mary Hordern, in black velvet, and a fur-trimmed velvet wrap. Mr. and
Mrs. Clayton entertained Mr. and Mrs. Chauvel at supper at their home after the show.
FUR-TRIMMED COATS AND FROCKS
Mrs. Here McIntyre, who wore a frock of cyclamen pink flat crepe and a kolinski cape, entertained
the Mayor of North Sydney (Alderman David Hunter) and Mrs. Hunter, the latter in a black lace frock.
Mr. Ken Hall was accompanied by Mrs. Ken Hall, who wore a frock of sage green matelass.
Mrs. Hugh Poate covered her frock of black velvet with a fin wrap; mid Lady Denton, who
accompanied Sir Hugh Denison, wore a full-length mink coat over a frock of black and gold brocade.
Mrs. David Martin's black coat, collared with silvei fox, covered a black gown. Miss June Munro
pinned a large purple orchid in her Ice-biue satin gown, which she covered with a long black velvet
cloak.
The Sydney Morning Herald, Sat 26 Sep 1936, page 11

The majority of local football clubs have made themeselves a vigorous part of community life,
establishing social networks based on a communitys sense of solidarity, identity and comradery .
The Age, Wed 30 Sep, 1953
In October 1953, Parkside received a letter from the East Brunswick Football Club requesting an aid
in appeal for the late Frederick John Pearman who played for East Brunswick. Parkside responded to
East Brunswick with a financial-aid appeal letter purchasing 20 worth of Aid Union tickets.
Parkside Football Club the 1954 Annual Meeting was held at Mechanics Institute on February 12th.
The two storey row of brick and stucco offices, shops and dwellings was erected in 1890 on part of a
triangular Crown reserve bounded by Napier, Nicholson and Buckley Streets set aside for the
Footscray Mechanics Institute in 1886.
As a form of income for the Mechanics Institute trust, prominent local architect and Footscray
councillor Charles James Polain and builder James Rawsthorn leased the corner of Nicholson and
Buckley streets for a commercial development (from December 1890- 1912): they designed and built
the row of shops, offices and dwellings. Polain was the principal resident architect within the
Western region of Melbourne, being responsible for a number of distinctive and significant designs.
Polain was also nationally known for his starting gate invention used in horse racing. This building
was his office for a time.

The Footscray Mechanics Institute Trust continued to own and lease the building after the initial
Polain lease, housing some locally notable tenants as well as the Footscray Institute of Technology.
http://vhd.heritagecouncil.vic.gov.au/places/124959
Tthe committee instructed clubs delegates who represented Parkside at FDFL to oppose any
change from Saturday to Sunday football.
It was decided that the club enter two teams in the Footscray District Football League in the 1954
forthcoming season. At the same meeting all members of committee agreed that the club should
proceed with an application to Footscray City Council for use of ground on Henry Turner Reserve for
the 1st and 2nd teams for the forthcoming season. Additionaly, the club will aply to the Footscray
Council for standard goal and behind posts, if unavaliable from the Council, the club purchase same.
It was agreed that the club call a General Meeting with regard to disbanding the Parkside Football
Club to amalgamate with the Parkside Boys Club.
Crisis Point
Mr Harry Bryce who was a president of Parkside Football Club for five years (from 1948 to 1952)
together with the clubs secretary Mr W. Annand attempted to merge Parkside Football Club with
the Parkside Boys Club. Consequently the issue of clubs room and who will run it emerged as a
principal problem.
On the committee meeting held on 13th April, 1954 Mr Cheeseman reported on the deputation
which awaited on the committee of the Parkside Boys Club, with the view of obtaining keys to the
pavilion. The request to the said committee for a key was refused. A further report from the
president disclosed that the 15 was for the rental of the ground and the pavilion
that this club be willing to attend a conference with the Footscray City Council with regardto the
pavilion at the Henry Turner reserve
that a special meeting be called if a request is received to attend conference with the council and
that a deputation be formed to attend such conference.
After series of meetings with the Footscray City Council where clubs deputation vigorously
advocated the football clubs case and the rights to continue to occupy the pavilion at the Henry
Turner Reserve.
On the 21st July 1954 Parkside Football Club received the letter from the Footscray City Council
advising that the Mayor, Chairman of Parks Garden and the town clerk to investigate the building
adjacent to the Henry Turner Memorial Reserve with respect to the dispute between this club and
the Parkside Boys Club.
Further letter from the council advising that this club is to have occupation of the said building as
follows:

a) The southern section to be occupied by the Parkside team
b) The centre section to be occupied by the umpires.
c) The northern section to be occupied by the visiting team.
d) This club is allowed to use southern section of the building for treatment of injured players
on Sunday mornings.
We owe a particular debt of gratitude to the custodians and the leadership of Parkside Football Club
who fought and won that battle.
Most consistent: J. Glesson
Most improved: F. Lang
Most serviceable: R. Cunningham
Best 1st year: J. Menson
Coaches reports for the 1954 season stated that although the A team did not win premiership, it
was a most successful season because of the fact that the club gained new players of the highest
calibre.
Mr White reporting on B team stated that the 1954 season was quite a successful season although
the team failed to make the final four. There are quite a few good players and the team look forward
to a better season next year. The end of season footy trip was a great success where forty players
travelled to Maryborough.
In 1895, Mark Twain visited Maryborough, which he dryly observed as being: "A railway station
with a town attached.

1954: Corner of Barkly St and Nicholson St, Footscray
Picture: Herald Sun Image Library/ ARGUS
Parkside Football Club entered three teams in in the Footscray District Football League in 1955
season, comprising 1st (Open Age), 2nd (under 18) and 3rd (under 16).
Club applied to Footscray City Council for ground adjacent to the Footscray Rowing Club pavilion for
Parksides 3rd team.
Secretary of the club received instructions to write to FDFL, recommending Mr Herb Pascarl for an
award of Life Membership of the Footscray District Football League.
Mr J. Devine was elected as a Life Member of Parkside Football Club.
In March 1955, the club received the letter from Footscray City Council advising that work would
commence on the new club rooms at earliest convenience.
There was a very poor attendance at trainings causing the first team to play short of players against
Seddon in the first round of the 1955 season. Eventually, the team was starting to take shape for the
ongoing the 1955 season.
A profit of 35 was made on the Dance Party.
The Masonic Hall was booked for the presentation night.
The FDFL advised Parksides officials that the club lost four competition points and was fined the
sum of 1 for playing K. Ford against North Footscray.
Trip committee arranged accommodation in Shepparton for the annual 1955 trip. (Friday 19th
August, 1955)

Dry cleaning of guernsey costed 2.
The entertainment was provided for the under 16 pie night
Towards the end of the season A team had immense difficulties to field eighteen players. There were
only 11 men against Sunshine and the same against Spotswood.
The coach of the 3rd team was granted an honorarium of 10.
The picnic for 3rd (under 16) was organised on Sunday 9th October, 1955. They travelled to
Healesville.
Federal Hall Footscray
The Masonic Hall Footscray
Footscrays friendly societies, trade unions and social clubs gave life to the business centre in the
evenings and on weekends. Committees met in pubs and in lodge rooms.
Annual balls, smoke nights, fellowships, missions and breakfasts filled the four large public halls in
Footscray the Federal, Royal, Irene and Masonic. Dances were held here in the ground level hall,
upstairs was the Masons meeting venue.
www.maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/files/assets/public/.../footscray_trail_brochure_1.pdf
Presentation night was held at Masonic Hall at 16th November.
*****
Best and fairest: R. Power
Most consistent: P. Thompson
Most improved: R. McMillan
Most serviceable: F. Luxford

R. Cunningham was chosen by the selection committee to be the club's senior coach for the 1956
season. He was paid 2 per week.
N. Collings was selected to coach 2nd team in an honorary capacity.
Parkside committee refused a clearance to K. Pike to Braybrook, B. Kelly to Footscray 4th and
granted a clearance to P. Brodie to West Footscray.
In April 1956, Mr Cunningham reported that there have been 25 to 30 players training. Only lack of
tall players can stop the team from having a successful season.
Club sent a letter to Station Master at Northcote requesting him if it would be possible to arrange
for player M. Barker to be released from afternoon shift on alternate Saturdays to enable him to
play.
Club made a donation of 2.20.0 to Footscray Branch of St Johns in round five.
Parkside sent a letter to Footscray City Council complaining of state of ground which was in a
shocking condition and was not fit to play on.
The cost of the footy trip to Wonthaggi expected to be 6.10.0. A raffle was run to offset the cost of
trip.
It was agreed that best and fairest trophy winners be decided by the umpires votes. However, it was
suggested that players are to select own trophy winners (excepting Best and Fairest) and that

method of voting be preferential. The selection committee of each team had responsibility to select
players that are qualified to vote.
Social Secretary reported that there was a profit of 27 from the Club Night on the 14th July 1956.
The Cabaret Ball was held at clubs room on Friday 27th July. The door prize was a bottle of
burgundy. The trip to Wonthaggi was cancelled and arrangements were being made to go to
Camperdown.
The profit for the ball was approximately 65 a special effort was conducted for injured player J.
Gleeson and the sum of 40 has been handed to him.
At the same time, The Argus reported that total profit of the seven departments of the
Commonwealth Bank of Australia raised 3,794,000 to 17,439,000 in the year to June 30, 1956.
Parkside received donation of 1.10.0 from Foostcray ANA Cricket Club.
2 was spent on hire of microphone.
The Club Committee has informed members that a dinner for a players and committee will be held
after the Grand Final at the home of the Secretary, Mr Charlie Cooke and then a night will be held
for supporters and players at the club rooms.
Parkside coach, Mr Cunningham informed committee that he is very confident of the outcome of the
match for the premiership on Saturday, 9 September 1956.
Despite the optimistic sentiment, the team was not able to win premiership flag.
In Chinese Zodiac signs, the year 1956 represented the Red Fire Monkey. According to Chinese
astrology traditions lucky colours can bring fortune and unlucky colours can cause trouble.
The unlucky colour for the Monkey sign is red. This was certain for the Parkside boys in their loss to
Braybrook Bombers that year, who themselves wore red on their jumpers.

Braybrook defeated Parkside in the Grand Final by 10 points.
Braybrook 11.7.73 d. Parkside 9.9.63
Parkside Football Club A Grade: 1956 Runners up
Back Row: C. Pertzel, S. Perram, L. Keating, R. MacMillan, D. Kelly, J. Timms
2nd Row: C. Cooke, R. Conn, W. Haines, J. Baxter, K. Keating, J. Considine, B. Kelly, J. Dordan, F.
Luxford, J. Glesson, M. Timms, A. Lee
3rd Row: K. Pierce, B. Watt, M. Barker, K. Cross, R. Power (V. Capt), R. Charles, R. Cunningham (Capt.
& Coach), F. Lang, F. Grubb, G. Green
Front Row: K. Austen, R. OKeefe, A. Croft
Footscray 1956

Parkside Football Club C Grade 1956
Back Row: W. McDonald, B. Jordan, G. Wright, D. Britton, P. Parkinson, B. Wright (V. Capt)
2nd Row: S. Gilbee, J. Ellis, H. Ferris, R. McNamara, R. Beard, N. McGavin, J. Curry
3rd Row: R. Pinney, S. Orton, J. Dundon (Captain), S. Mackie (Coach), T. Bishop, D. Coats, L. Bird
Front: M. Jordan, V. Stephens
Australian football was one of two demonstration sports at the 1956 Summer Olympics held in
Melbourne, Australia. The rules stated that the hosts must organize both a native game and a sport
foreign to the organizing country as "demonstration sports." Australian Rules football was chosen as
the "native" sport; and baseball, an American sport, was chosen as the "foreign" sport.
In March 1956 both the Victorian Football League and the Victorian Football Association were
invited to select a combined team to play an exhibition match against a representative Victorian
Amateur Football Association team at the Olympic Games.

Professional players from these leagues were unable to compete due to the policies of amateurism
of the Olympic Games at the time.
The single demonstration match was played on the Main Stadium of the Olympic Games (the
Melbourne Cricket Ground).
It started at 4:10 pm on Friday, 7 December 1956, immediately after the "bronze medal" soccer
match between Bulgaria and India had finished (Bulgaria won 30).
Throughout the entire game, at which the Duke of Edinburgh was an interested spectator, a running
commentary attempted to explain the umpires' decisions to the audience; and those who were not
used to the game found it extremely useful.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_football_at_the_1956_Summer_Olympics

Footscray in 1950s
The 1957 Season
The club entered three teams in Footscray District League; Open Age, Under 18 and Under 16.
1957 saw an increase of membership fee for adult from 15 to 16.10.0
Len McCankie was appointed as the Parkside Football Club A Team Coach for the 1957 season.
Len McCankie

After showing extraordinary promise as a schoolboy footballer, Len McCankie played briefly for
North Footscray before moving to the VFL with Footscray, while still aged only 16, in 1941. He went
on to play a total of 143 games for the Bulldogs over the ensuing 10 seasons, earning a reputation as
a courageous, resilient and highly skilled footballer who almost invariably gave good value. Solidly
built at 180 cm and 85 kg, he never shirked a physical challenge, and had pace to burn.
He could function equally well across half back or in the ruck, and was selected to represent the VFL
in 1945 and at the 1947 Hobart carnival. Club vice-captain toward the end of his time at Footscray,
McCankie was hopeful of being appointed coach in 1951 following the departure of Arthur Olliver.
However, when this did not eventuate he made his disappointment evident by accepting an offer to
captain-coach North Hobart.
http://australianfootball.com/players/player/len%2Bmccankie/6673
Len McCankie (1924 2003)
Mr Pascarl who represented Parkside in the FDFL informed committee that a start of the 1957
season was scheduled for 27th April 1957 and the grand final for 7th September.
Practice match was played against All Blacks Football Club (Essendon).
Gambling was prohibited within the vicinity of the club rooms.
The club has ordered six new balls.
A Grade team opened their season with good win against Spotswood.

Club was gradually paying existing debts.
It was suggested that a bottle drive was held to improve club funds.
Committee made decision to ban three troublemakers from future functions at the club rooms.
Selectors for A Grade were: Len McCankie (Captain and Coach) and Vice-Captain R. Power.
All clubs were requested to supply names of players interested in playing against the Federal
Football League on Queens Birthday Weekend.
An old players and members reunion was held at club rooms on 19th June, the supper was prepared
and the ladies committee laid the tables.
The Cabaret Ball was held at Federal Hall on Friday 9th August and ticket price was 1.10.0.
The club has purchased a newer piano.
The trip committee went to Ararat on Saturday 15th June in order to make preparations for the trip
but were not able to get suitable accommodation there, and they then went to Stawell and
eventually booked in there.
On 25th July 1957, in the absence of McCankie, Mr R. Power reported that the team is now 8 points
clear of the 2nd team despite the fact that the team was short of players through injuries.
W. Jennings who played for A Team was lift in ambulance with fractured hand.
An arrangement was made for catering 200 people during the Cabaret Ball.
FDFL informed the club that the semi-final game between Parkside and Seddon will took place at
Braybrook.
A profit of 25 was made on the Cabaret Ball.

A letter was sent to Hon. A.E. Shepherd congratulating him on leadership of Victorian Labor Party.
A.E. Shepherd Parksides and F.D.F.L. first Premiership Coach (1931)
President of F.D.F.L. from 1933 to 1945
Shepherd, Alfred Ernest (Ernie) (19011958)
Alfred Ernest (Ernie) Shepherd (1901-1958), community leader and politician, was born on 6 January
1901 at Bendigo, Victoria, eldest of eight children of Victorian-born parents Alfred Shepherd, miner,
and his wife Rebecca Josephine, ne Neilson, both active Presbyterians. Leaving Violet Street State
School at the age of 14 to help support his family, Ernie worked for Robert Harper & Co., and studied
maths and carpentry at night at the Bendigo School of Mines. He joined the Labor Party, became
secretary of the Newsboys' Union (to secure a pay rise for fellow paper-boys) and supplemented his
income by driving for political candidates, including Tom Tunnecliffe. In 1916 he went to Melbourne,
lived with an aunt at Footscray and attended anti-conscription meetings. At 17 he began an
apprenticeship as a pattern-maker in the Victorian Railways' workshops at Newport.
An enthusiastic sportsman, Shepherd swam and dived competitively, and played football with the
Footscray and North Melbourne second XVIIIs. He was honorary secretary of the Footscray Swimming
Club (1918-30), Footscray Football Club (1930) and Footscray District Football League (1933-45). In
addition, he was a Victorian Football League umpire (for matches in the second division), and a judge
and registrar of the Victorian Amateur Swimming Association. The F.F.C., F.D.F.L. and Victorian
Football Union were to award him life memberships. At Ballarat East on 9 April 1927 he married with
Presbyterian forms Beatrice Vera Hancock, a dressmaker. By 1929 they had their own home at
Footscray. The nearby St Andrew's Presbyterian Church became the family's place of worship.

This leading-hand pattern-maker, staunch member of the Amalgamated Engineering Union,

indefatigable secretary, and family man, emerged as 'Labor's trump card' at the 1943 Footscray
municipal election: 'The most prosperous city was that with the greatest number of contented
individuals', Shepherd declared, 'and Labor stood for making the home life all that it should be'. He
served five terms (mayor 1948-49) before retiring from the council in 1955 with an unrivalled
reputation for assiduous attention to residents' concerns. A strong supporter of home-ownership as a
stabilizing social and political influence, he was made a director (from 1945) of four district co-
operative housing societies. He befriended and praised businessmen who lived in and contributed to
the community from which they made their money; he supported post-war immigration, but drew
attention to overcrowded schools and the housing shortage; and he worked hard to establish youth
clubs and elderly citizens' centres.
An education trust, a bridge over the Maribyrnong River, a memorial garden at Maidstone and a
reserve at Footscray Park were named after him
A non-smoker and teetotaller whose recreations were gardening and reading, Shepherd never owned
a car, preferring to cycle, walk or use public transport. His plain style of living, approachability and
network of friends stood him in good stead, and helped him to win the seat of Sunshine in the
Legislative Assembly in 1945. Redistributions saw him move to the seats of Ascot Vale (1955) and
Footscray (1958). He proved a tireless local member, renowned for innumerable silent acts of
generosity. John Cain, the leader of the Australian Labor Party, groomed him as his successor and
allocated him the education portfolio when Labor won government in December 1952. A hard-
working minister, he revitalized his department's building programme, travelling widely to open new
classrooms and schools, and to assess local needs. He retained the portfolio when Cain reorganized
the government in March 1955, following the split in the A.L.P. 'No country could be over-run by
Communism', Shepherd said while campaigning for the general election in May, 'if the people could
be given a high standard of education, decent living conditions, an impartial press and the
opportunity of home ownership'. His wife broadcast with him on radio-station 3KZ, extolling the
government's progressive education policy.
The election result consigned Labor to Opposition. L. W. Galvin lost his seat and Shepherd succeeded
him as deputy-leader. Although he deplored sectarianism, lamented the split and was devastated by

the fracturing of lifelong friendships, his relations with local right-wingers remained cordial. On Cain's
death in August 1957, Shepherd was unanimously elected leader. Opening Labor's 1958 election
campaign at Footscray, he announced a 'family first' platform, promising improved employment,
housing and schools. He repudiated attempts to link his party with communism and ascribed the
A.L.P.'s defeat to the 'unity ticket' of the Democratic Labor Party and the Liberal and Country Party.
While opening a youth centre in his electorate, he died suddenly of myocardial infarction on 12
September 1958 at West Footscray. He was accorded a state funeral and was cremated. His wife and
their two daughters survived him.
Stockily built, quietly spoken, bespectacled and well groomed, 'Shep' was a disarmingly fair-minded
Labor man propelled to party leadership in turbulent times. He earned considerable respect as a
committeeman, a councillor, and a parliamentarian dedicated to the interests and welfare of the
common man and the family. A staunch Empire loyalist who upheld the monarchy, Australia Day and
the Anzac spirit, he was seen as an asset to a party accused of leftist extremism. He was a home-
loving man whose parliamentary and ministerial duties undermined his uncertain health. An
education trust, a bridge over the Maribyrnong River, a memorial garden at Maidstone and a reserve
at Footscray Park were named after him.
http://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/shepherd-alfred-ernest-ernie-11676
On the eve of the biggest game of the year L. McCankie reported that the team is in good condition.
The best team was available for the grand final and he was very confident about the outcome.
The second Grand Final between Parkside and Kingsville occurred on 7th September 1957. This time
Parkside won the flag defeating Kingsville by 38 points. In one hand it was revenge for the loss in the
1943 Grand Final when Kingsville was the better side beating Parkside by 22 points.
Final score was:
Parkside 10.21.81 d. Kingsville 6.7.43

The final series at the oval attracted a big crowd, who were delighted with the standard of football.
WHITTEN FAVORS LOCAL LADS
Prior to the commencement of the main game, F.D.L. secretary Bert Dunne introduced Ted Whitten,
F.F.C. captain-coach, to the spectators and players. Ted congratulated the winners of the League's
best and fairest awards, Mery Beckett (A), Allen Saunders (B) and Ray Walker (C).
He stresed that there were plenty of class players available to the F.F.C. within the F.D.L. and it
was committees intention to give every opportunity to local lads in the future.
The financial result of the finals was outstanding, takings over both days amounting to 320, from
which the cost of umpires and footballs 161 left a net profit of 159, the best since the inception of
the Leauge.
RESULTS
Parkside 10.21 d. Kingsville 6.7
Always on top, Parkside were 10 goals in front with 10 minutes to go in the final quarter, but when
they took things easily, Kingsville scored four quick goals.
After many years of football it was the first premiership side that captain-coach Len McCankie had
played in, and he was delighted with his club's success.
Jim Considine won the trophy for the best player, and others to do their full share were Beer,
Hawkins, Lang, Mc-Cankie and Power. Goal-kickers: Barker 3, Cross 2, Hawkins 2, Considine,
McCankie .
The Mail, September 1957

Social Secretary reported that players spent an enjoyable evening after the grand final game and
premiership celebrations. R. Richards donated the value of 18 gallons of refreshment and T.
Armstrong has donated the value of 9 gallons of refreshment.
R. Charles has donated refreshment for the trip.
The Best and Fairest winners for 1957n season were: L. McCankie (A Grade), R. McNamara (B
Grade) and B. Wright (C Grade)

Len McCankie
Len McCankie was just a shy 16-year-old with pimples senior debut with Footscray, late in the 1941
season. The Bulldogs played at the Lakeside Oval, McCankie lining up on a half-back flank.
He can't recall who he played on, or which team won, but well remembers it as a pretty scary
experience. "I don't think I slept at all the night before the game," he said. "But it was a great thrill,
particularly being so young.
At the time, McCankie was the youngest Footscray player to crack it for a berth in the seniors a
fact he recalls with immense pride.
"A kid called Harry Skreja beat me a bit later on," he said. "He was a bit younger when he made his
senior debut (in '69)."
McCankie remained in the senior team for the remainder of his time with the Bulldogs. He played 143
games before quitting the club after 50 season.
He oozed class on the football ground from a young age and seemed assured of developing into a
league star. McCankie began his career with the Hyde St Primary School team. At age 13, he
captained the Victorian schoolboys team in the Australian Championships. The youngster took on
and beat all opponents and was awarded the J.L. Williams Medal for the best and fairest player
during the carnival.
"Because of that business, Footscray always had me under notice," he said.
He spent two seasons with the North Footscray under-18s in the FDL before joining Footscray. The
Bulldogs signed McCankie the minute Northerners official "Gundy" Wood notified them that he
believed the lad was ripe for the big-time stuff
McCankie was a fearless footballer. Versatility was another strength, McCankie often alternating
between stints on the ball and in key defensive positions. He always kept his eye on the football,
sometimes to his detriment.
"I broke my collarbone once after running into a goal-post at Footscray," he said. "I had my eyes on
the ball and was running back for the mark, and ... it just happened. I remember it was up the Barkly
St end."
The Sporting Globe predicted a big future for a then 19-year-old McCankie in 1944:"McCankie is still
almost a junior, in age, yet his football is characterised with the coolness of a veteran. He is game
and his marking for a fellow lacking an inch in height is outstanding."
The following year, the Bulldogs offered McCankie, 20, the vice-captaincy. His appointment, at such a
young age, may have surprised a few, but it summed up perfectly the esteem in which he was held at
the club. He kept the position for five seasons.

McCankie played in four finals series, Footscray unfortunately unable to get past the first semi-final
on each occasion.
The loss to Melbourne in the '46 first-semi still bugs him. The Bulldogs led the Demons by a couple of
goals with only a few minutes remaining, but fell in a hole to lose by three goals.
"I thought if we'd got over Melbourne, we possibly could have won the premiership?"
When the late Arthur Oliver stepped down as Footscray's captain/coach after the '50 season,
McCankie believed he was a good bet to be the successor. But Charlie Sutton got the job. McCankie,
his nose slightly out of joint, left the Bulldog kennel to captain/coach Tasmanian club North Hobart.
He was 26. He stayed three seasons, captain/coaching the Tasmanian state side in the '53 Australian
carnival.
McCankie later captain/coached Warrnambool (Hampden League), Welshpool (South Gippsland) and
Parkside (Footscray District). He led Parkside to the '57 A1 premiership. Max Hawkins, the father of
Footscray champion Doug, was a member of the victorious grand final side.
McCankie finished his official involvement in football back with the Bulldogs, as a committeeman and
charman-of-selectors. He coached the reserves in 70 and 71.
Mark Buttler and Steven Milne, Sons of the Scray: Footscrays Finest 50, Self Published, 1994

After the 1957 season, the club was in good financial shape. The turnover of the club for the season
1957 was a record sum of over 3000. The club was out of debt and had money in hand of 60.
At the start of the March 1958 there were twenty-four financial members.
Len McCankie was reappointed as player coach of Parkside Football Club on the same terms as in
season 1957. R. Power was an assistant coach at the salary of 12 per week, R and Charles at the
salary of 5 per week. L. Sellman was chosen again as non-playing coach for season 1958 on the
same terms as in 1957 season.
The club rooms were painted and a working bee was held on Thursday, April 4th 1958.
The club had entered three teams in the F.D.F.L. including, Open Age, Under 18 and Under 16 teams.
St Albans Football Club was admitted to the District League.
The club accepted an invitation to participate in the Junior Lightning Premiership that was held in
Bacchus Marsh in March 1958.
A practice match was arranged with Altona FC at home on April 12th.
Mrs Currie was invited to unfurl the premiership won in 1957 season.
Clearances were granted to B. Grattidge (Prahran), McMeilan (Fitzroy), K. Austin (Halls Gap). G.
Harper (Yarraville).
Clearances were refused to V. Soraghan and K. Prior (West Footscray), I. Martin (Ascot Vale), W.
Menzies (East Sunshine).
The club purchased guernseys from Footscray Sports Depot for 67.18.0.
F.D.F.L. initiated establishment of Accident Fund which was supported by Parkside Football Club.
Tom Lovett was injured in the practice match against Altona and the club paid hospital bills,
expenses and reimbursed Lovett for time lost at work.
Committee decided that the dance at the club rooms finish no later than 1am and rooms are to be
vacated at that time in all future occasions.
Parkside A team lost its first match for the 1958 season against Kingsville. The Coach reported that
the team played badly but he was encouraged with the fact that plenty of players attended training
and he expressed his optimism about the future.
Committee was informed that Footscray Football Club selectors will attend F.D.F.L. matches.
Barry Wright played 50th game for C Grade (U16) on Saturday May 17th 1958.
The A Team made significant improvement.

N. Pinney suffered a broken leg in match against Spotswood and was on crutches for 6 weeks.
Pinney was paid 10 per week during the recovery period.
This is the coaches report presented to the committee on July 24th 1958. A team had won its last
two matches including a good win at Braybrook with a patched up team. List has been cut to 24
eligible players for finals, four of whom are injured.
It was stated that player Roberts had teeth knocked out and will need a dental plate and the club
promised to assist with costs.
R. Cunningham advised the committee that he will be able to procure a radiogram for the dance
party.
Radiograms in 1958
The committee conducted an effort to aid T. McKenna who was a member of the club providing an
immediate donation of 6 per week and organising raffles to increase assistance. Prizes included a
standard lamp, an overnight bag and 6 towels.
Alexandra (Victoria) was chosen as the annual trip's destination, from October 10th to 12th. The C
grade (U16) travelled to Bacchus Marsh.
The club delegates reported on meeting of District League that was held at Western Oval. The
District League officials and club representatives discussed a proposal regarding Sunday matches.
Parkside instructed club delegates to vote in favour of a complete round of A Grade matches be
played on Sunday if Council permission is granted.
The last home match for the 1958 season was against Footscray & Yarraville Socials.

On 21st August 1958, in the absence of the main coach Len McCankie, R. Power reported that A
Grade won minor premiership and would play against Footscray & Yarraville Socials in the semi-final.
He expressed confidence that the team would win the grand final,
Best and Fairest winners for the 1958 season were:
A Grade - J. Considine
B Grade - G. Pope
C Grade - B. Wright
After winning the A Grade semi-final match against Footscray & Yarraville Socials Len McCankie
reported that all players are available for Grand Final and is hopeful of another premiership.
However, in the 1958 Grand Final Spotswood made the Pies pay for a lack of accuracy in the decider.
Spotswood defeated Parkside by four points.
Spotswood 10.7.67 d. Parkside 9.9.63
Parkside Football Club A Grade - Runners Up 1958
Back Row: R. Gregory, ..?, H. Pascarl, C. Petsail, J. Lord

Standing: B. ODonnell, T. McKenna, N. Pinney, J. Acreman, R. Close, P. Hun, T. Lovett, D. Kelly, J.

Considine, C. Cooke, R, Power, E. OKeefe, I. Sweeney, R. Conn, N. Collings, R. Cunnigham, F. Grubb.
R. Henry
Seated: L. Watt, F. Lang, L. Coon, E. Phillips, R. Beer, L. McCankie, R. Cunningham, F. Grubb,
Front Row: M. Hawkins, F. Acocks, B. Watt, K. Cross, B. Hurst
L. Coon
L. Coon was a leading Footscray District Football League goalkicker in the 1958 season booting 77
goals.
In September 1958, Alfred Ernest (Ernie) Shepherd passed away. He was a great community leader
and politician, the first Parkside premiership coach in F.D.F.L. , Honorary secretary of Footscray
Football Club(1930) and Footscray District Football League (1933-45). A.E. Shepherd was a life
member of Footscray Football Club and the F.D.F.L.
A minute silence was held in memory of the late A.E. Shepherd during the club committee meeting
that was held on September 18th 1958. R. Charles informed the committee that he had sent a
wreath to the funeral of the late A.E. Shepherd on behalf of the club. It was pointed out that the
club make available a trophy each year and such trophy to be known as A.E. Shepherd Memorial
Trophy.
We saw, on a brighter side that Footscray and the broader community embraced the formation of
the Footscray Technical College in 1958.
Footscray Technical College (1958)

Footscray Technical College was established in 1958, when Footscray Technical School was
renamed in line with Education Department reforms to technical schools. At this time, the Education
Department created hierarchies of technical schools within designated regions. Footscray Technical
College was designated as a 'feeder' school, meaning all technical schools in the region sent their
senior students to FTC, and looked to the College for guidance and leadership.
Although the College continued with a focus on engineering and trades, courses were expanded in
areas such as management and commerce, and the first female day (commerce) students were
enrolled in 1960. At this time, the College offered a range of qualifications, from junior trade school
certificates to diplomas. Trades continued to be an important focus, with annual "Craftsmanship in
Industry" displays held during the 1950s and 60s.
http://libraryguides.vu.edu.au/vu-archives/footscray-technical-college
Significant events in Australia for the year 1958
Monash University is founded in Melbourne, Victoria

QANTAS international services commence
Construction of Australia's largest man-made lake, Lake Eucumbene on the Eucumbene
River in the Snowy Mountains, is completed
Melbourne: Thousands of Greek men riot when the bridal ship Castel Felice is 9 hours late
Sydney: Poet Hugh Mcrae dies, aged 81
Brisbane: 200,000 turn out to greet the Queen Mother
Sydney: 2UE publishes first Australian Top 40 chart
NSW: Australia's biggest reservoir, Lake Eucumbene, is completed
Dublin: New world record for the mile as runner Herb Elliott clocks in at 3 mins 54.5 secs
Adelaide: Antarctic explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson, dies at the age of 76
Tooma Gorge: The 27-year-old wreckage of the Southern Cloud passenger plane is
discovered in the Snowy Mountains
Canberra: Menzies Government wins fifth term
Melbourne: ICI Building opens in Melbourne. It is the tallest building in Australia
The National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA) opens
The ANZAC Day Act 1958 receives Royal Assent, making ANZAC Day (25 April) a national
public holiday in Australia.

In January 1959, J. Acreman informed committee that the clubs debt increased rapidly. The debts
due by the club were 212. In fact, the club finances were in in dire straits, a debt increased to 292
in February 1959.
It was concluded that the trip to Canadian Bay which occurred in December 1958 was well attended
and proved a success.
H. Parscarl presented a written nomination for Ron Charles to be admitted as a Life Member.
The coaching position of each grade was advertised.
Again, the club had entered three teams in the F.D.F.L.
L. Sellman was appointed as coach of B team, C. Cooke and F. Acocks were chosen as C Grade
coaches.
The process of selecting A team coach proved to be much more complex and lengthier than
expected.
The club committee proposed the plan of approaching Jock Spencer, formerly of North Melbourne
(full-forward in North Melbourne's official 'Team of the Century'). Rex Close applied for that position
requesting a salary of 6.0.0 per week. L. Coon sent his application for position of coach of A
Grade on an honorary basis. R. Power retained his interest for a particular position, asking a salary of
4.0.0 per week. After much discussion it was decided that R. Power was appointed at a salary of

3.0.0 per week and was advised that if the financial position of the club can afford it at the end of
the season the club will pay the extra 1.0.0 per week
Mr Power was pleased with the attendance at the clubs first training for the 1959 season.
The club made a profit of 46 at a barbecue that was held in March 1959.
L. Sellman, the coach of B team reported that he had 38 players training and he expressed
confidence that team will be hard to beat.
Sunshine Football Club pulled out from the F.D.F.L. thus creating a Bye in A and B grades.
Clearances were granted to T. Lovett to (Langi Kal Kal), A. Lee (Colac Imperials), DArcy (Maidstone),
F. Lang (Newport) and S. Gilbee (Werribee Districts)
The A team opened the season with a good win against Braybrook. Power reported that new
players were settling pretty well and he said that hopes are high for a good season.
A discussion took place concerning the Annual Ball. It was agreed that the most suitable date was
Friday, 26th June 1959. Secretary was directed to book Kensington Town Hall for the particular date.
Band had been engaged for the Ball at cost of 24 (8pm to 2am).
The B Grade was held a dance at Progress Hall on Saturday 23rd May 1959.
The A Grade players N. Cooke and R. Henry had received permission to hold special effort at the
Railway Hotel each alternate Thursday.
It was stated that a coach was booked from W. Butler for trip to Maryborough. Cost was 40 and
2.0.0 licence fee and accommodation for driver.
N. Collings informed the club that was not available for A Grade for reminder of the 1959 season
because he was appointed as association goal umpire panel.
Clubs delegates at F.D.F.L. were instructed to vote against of increased fees for A Grade field
umpires.
Cooke reported that the club rooms had again were entered and a number of football taken.
The amount of matches required for eligibility of players was reduced to five.
The club received a letter from Spotswood FC thanking club for the loan of guernseys.
In the absence of R. Power, C. Cooke reported that after two good wins the same old trouble arose
when playing weaker teams, some players did not turn up and consequently four points were lost
against North Footscray.

A representative match was played at Footscray oval on July 19th 1959 in aid of Footscray Hospital.
A combined Footscray District League team turned on excellent football to be beaten by only 11
points by a Footscray 18 in a charity match at the Western Reserve on Sunday. The attendance was
good and a 47 gate will go to Footscray Hospital. Outstanding in the junior side were Bailey,
McInnes (Braybrook) and Ellior, Short (Spotswood). Also prominent was Ken Duff, a Parkside ruckman
who has been signed by Footscray.
The club purchased a medallion and present same to B. Wright and K. Duff to commemorate their
selection in the interstate team that played in South Australia.
Unless Parkside can topple the competition leaders, Footscray and Yarraville Socials, in the last
home-and-home round this Saturday they are almost to miss out on making the Footscray District
League finals.
The Mail, July 1959
In a thrilling finish to the battle for positions in the Footscray League A Grade final four, Parkside on
Saturday scraped into the finals by downing Socials, previously undefeated for the season.
It was an outstanding example of football's "glorious uncertainty." Parkside were in fourth position
and faced a cut-throat match against the undefeated leaders, while Kingsville, lying fifth, were pitted
against the bottom side, Maidstone.

It was odds-on that Kingsville would gain a place in the finals, as Parks looked to have little hope of
downing the formidable Socials.
They did the trick, however, not merely scraping home, but romping in by nine goals.
The fashion in which Parkside "turned it on" at the right time had a real Collingwood flavour. And,
fittingly they wear the same black and white uniform as the Magpies
Parkside 14.7 d. F & Y Socials 5.9
Parkside combined evenly for a convincing win, and goals came from K. Cross 3, B. OKeefe 3, R. Duff
2, T. Davenport 2, L. Coon, J. Considine, B. Phillips and J. Grubb.
How Clubs Finished 1959 Home and Away Season
Semi-finals to be played on Saturday are:
A Grade
Socials v. Seddon (Pennell reserve),
Spotswood v. Parkside (Hanmer reserve);
B Grade
Braybrook v. West Footscray (Angliss reserve), Parkside v. St Albans, (Kensington Reserve). The
senior games begin at 2.30 and C Grade finals commence at 10 a.m.
John Lord again won A Grade boundary umpire award with maximum votes of 48 points.
R. Power reported on A Grade loss in the first semi-final and advised that team credited club in
fighting game.
Reporter for the Mail wrote that, In a very even, hard fought game, Spotswoods accuracy and
determination were telling factors.
Final scores: Spotswood 8.12. (60) d. Parkside 6.15. (51)

Mr OKeefe reported on B Grade semi-final win and advised that team is confident of outcome of
finals.
Secretary reported that a trip was arranged for C Grade (U16) to Bacchus Marsh on September 6th
1959 and the club provided 5.0.0 towards cost of trip.
Best and Fairest for the 1959 Season:
A Grade K. Cross
C Grade - C. Bendelle
financial members of the Parkside Football Club during 50s
It could be said that Parkside enjoyed a relatively successful the 1959 season, but the same cannot
be said for the Footscray Bulldogs. In 1959 Footscray City turned 100 years of age, however
unfortunately 1959, the Centenary Year was not a successful one for the Bulldogs. For the first time

in its V.F.L. history the club finished last on the premiership ladder, with only 3 wins in 18 games
That was a terrible conclusion to a great story, 100 years and a wooden spoon for its football team.
http://www.fnwb.com.au/heritage/footscray-books/
One hundred years ago, when Footscray was first proclaimed a municipality, it was a small village of
400 white pioneers, subsisting on the stone quarries and surrounded by virgin bush, in which the
aborigines, emus and kangaroos roamed.
Today, with a population of 64,000, it is the pre-eminent manufacturing suburb of Melbourne and
the focal point of the pulsating, great western area of the metropolis.
The centenary of local government in Footscray on June 10 this year can be celebrated therefore with
immense pride in the past and supreme confidence in the future.
The Mail, June 1959
An estimated 25000 people lined Footscray streets on Monday for the biggest, gayest procession
the city has ever seen. The parade was a highlight of the city's centenary celebrations.
Organised by Footscray Junior Chamber of Commerce, the parade proved to be a miniature

Moomba," It had all the color, variety and attraction of Melbourne's glamor procession.
Footscray Advertiser, June 15, 1959

Parksiders demonstrated that being formidable and resilient requires that you can endure all sort of
challenges.
Dispute regarding the clubs rooms between Parkside FC and Harry Bryce, a successful Parkside
president, who was noticeably advocating interests of the Footscray Boys/Youth Club and who
actually underestimated social impacts and importance of football for a local community, was finally
resolved by Parkside Football Club a strong determination to build a new rooms for football club..
Pascarl remembers that, with council permission, we built the other old shed into club rooms better
than the first shed we modified. I mention these two sheds that we turned into club rooms because
they took a lot of hard work to make presentable.
Then more bad luck, the second of these rooms we built were burnt to the ground and so once again
the Club was without club rooms.
We once again were granted permission to build but this time built with bricks, concrete floor, and
change room for two teams, showers, toilets for men and women and a small social room. All this
was done with borrowed money.
When this building was finished, good windows, newly painted with tables and chairs, we had, in our
opinion, the best club rooms in the Footscray District Football League. Over the years, we added
another section and then they were flooded when the Maribyrnong River overflowed and that
season, the Club played on Dobson Reserve ground.

Applications for coaching positions for the 1960 season were advertised in local newspaper in
January 1960.
Treasurer reported that turnover for the 1959 season was 2102.19.3, ending with the deficit of
250. In meantime, deficit had fallen to 36.14.11 in February 1960.
Less Sellman was nominated for Life Membership in accordance with constitution and he was duly
elected a Life Member.

R. Power and R. Cunningham were elected Life Members through their service of 10 years as playing
members of the club.
F. Currie was elected unopposed as Club President for the 1960 year.
The club entered three teams in Footscray District Football League.
It was specified that Mr Coats, former Parkside player had opened a gymnasium in Kingsville Street
and that members were welcome.
A raffle was run at Railway Hotel each alternate Thursday and assistance was needed to dispose of
tickets.
Railway Hotel, Anderson Street, Yarraville (1959)
The committee have made a decision that a levy of 2 had to be imposed on any committeeman
who fails to attend meeting without notifying the secretary that he is unavailable.
The following committee members were appointed delegates to the F.D.F.L.: C. Cooke, J. Lord and R.
Power.
The club tried to obtain permission to run a weekly raffle at Railway Hotel.
Training was commenced on Tuesday, 8th March 1960.
The following applications were received for position of coach of A Grade:
D. Whitecross (playing) 6 per week.
R. Power (playing), 3 per week.
G. Fisher (playing), 5 per week
D. Lentin (playing), expenses
L. Coon (playing), committees decision

B. Rickards (playing) 5 per week
The Committee agreed that final selection of coach had to be by secret ballot. After lengthy
discussion the selection of coach was narrowed to Power and Rickards and on a vote Mr B. Rickards
was appointed coach for season 1960 at a salary of 5 per week. The appointment was made
conditional upon the following:
Mr Rickards should play Sunday football

Incurs an injury
This salary will not be paid for any week should he not play with the club
Mr Sellman and Mr Acocks were elected as new playing coaches of B and C Grade teams
respectively.
Clearances were granted to Kevin McCarthy (North Footscray) and Peter Parkinson to Vespa Football
Club. Clearances were refused to McRae to Braybrook, M. Russell to Altona, R. Dunne to Braybrook
and G. Cox to Footscray 4th.
The club had purchased a table tennis set for club at price of 6.
The Cabaret Ball tickets were ordered and the price per ticket was 1.10.0
House party was held at 60 Napier Street on May 28th 1960.
In June 1960, B. Rickards reported that A team was playing without system and consequently
losing matches.
The Loyal Studley Social Club wished to participate in clubs barbeque event that was held in June
1960. Proceeds were shared on 50/50 basis.
The club spent 7.50 on a barbeque meat that was purchased from Metropolitan Meat Market.
Metropolitan Meat Market and the Metropolitan Hotel
C. Cooke reported on A Grade team, in absence of Mr Rickards. He said that team performance
was very disappointing, claiming that coach not getting any support at training.

It was reported that annual trip arrangement was made to go to Benalla. Booking was made for
September 23rd 1960 at cost of 4.15.0 per head.
Social secretary reported that Bus for trip to Benalla was booked with Capital Roadlines at cost of
50, plus drivers accommodation.
Capital Roadlines Bus (Melbourne. 1960s)
Parkside Football Club Financial Statements for the 1960 season

PARKSIDE FOOTBALL CLUB
ANNUAL REPORT SEASON 1960
To the Members
Ladies & Gentlemen
On behalf of the Committee I submit the Annual Report and Balance Sheet for season 1960.
Reporting on the balance sheet you will note that the Club still has a deficit of 47 (02/11/1960) and
that the amount is in excess of last season due mainly through lack of members and the failure of
Social events throughout the Football Season. Social events arranged through last season were
attended by the same few people and whether this was due to lack of success on the field or poor
organisation must be brought to a head.
Senior Membership dropped from 52 in 1959 to 33 in 1960 mainly due to the disruption of the special
efforts conducted on Sunday mornings through the season although I am pleased to report that this
special effort is functioning much more smoothly at present.
An all-out effort must be made to re kindle the interest of previous members and donors or otherwise
the Club will be in a precarious position financially.
Reporting on the performances of the respective teams the Club had a rather disappointing year.
The First 18 under new Coach Brian Rickards started off on the wrong foot and never got into stride.
In the first seven matches played, five games were lost by less than six points and consequently some
players lost interest.
However things look much brighter for the ensuing season and the Committee expects Brian to reap
some reward for an arduous and to him what must have been a disappointing first year. I would like
at this point to convey my personal thanks to Brian for a job well done.
The Second XVIII (Reserves) had another very good year and finished in 14th position being
eliminated in the first semi-final by the ultimate premiers Braybrook Less Sellman again had charge
of the team and although he did not have the quantity of the players as in the previous season he
made very good use of the material available.
The Third XVIII under Fred Acocks had a most successful season and credit must be given to Fred in
steering his young and inexperienced team into the final 4 for the first time. Fred had a few good
players and a lot of small players who all teamed well together and must give Fred encouragement
for the coming season.

Social
As reported earlier, on the whole the Social functions were poorly attended, the exception being the
Cabaret Ball which although a Social Success was not a financial success. The Committee in their
wisdom decided that the 1st & 2nd XVIII combine on the Annual Trip and the venue was Benalla. This
decision was made in the hope that it would bring the younger players to meet the elder players and
vice-versa, but unfortunately it did not succeed as only 21 members made the trip. The members that
did make the trip had a most enjoyable time and congratulations go to the trip managers.
With respect to the off season Brian Rickards took over the helm of leader of Social Activities and
must be praised for the work he had done in this regard. A feature being the cricket matches
arranged and the trip to Canadian Bay which was a great success.
In appreciation the Club desires to record its appreciation to the following:
to the Boundary and goal umpires, timekeepers and managers of each team
the Coaches and Selection Committees of each team
the District league representatives
John Lord our treasurer for the concise way in which the position of the Club's finances can be
readily obtainable
Mrs. O'Keefe for the use of her home throughout the year
the Donors although few in number your assistance was greatly appreciated and I trust that
you will again be with us for the ensuing season.
The Club would like to offer its congratulations to the following:
the trophy winners of the Club in particular the Best & Fairest winners in each grade being
Gary Johnson, Barry Wright and Colin Bendolle.
the premier teams in each grade namely Footscray & Yarraville Socials, Braybrook
Spotswood and Seddon
Eric OKeeffe on his nomination as a Life Member
last but not least to Mr. H. Pascarl who travels from Fitzroy ,each second Thursday to chair
the Committee meetings and render his advice in complicated matters.
Trusting that I have not omitted anyone in the Clubs, appreciations and congratulations I wish to
remark on the Clubs prospects for Season 1961.


Nomination of E. OKeefe as a Life Member
1961
During the summer of 1961 the club won shield for cricket matches against Railway Social Club.
Picnic to Canadian Bay was held on Sunday 12th February.
Office Bearers for the 1961 season
Mr A.W. Abbey, President of F.D.F.L. from 1963-1966 and Jim Miller, President of Footscray Football
Club between 1963 and 1966 have addressed the clubs committee during the 64th annual meeting
which was held on Sunday, February 26th 1961. They addressed clubs committee and they
extended the best wishes from the Footscray Football Club for the coming season, and expressed
hope that boys from the Parkside FC and the district league, would come to Footscray to play with
that club.

The club delegates were instructed to vote against motion submitted by St Albans Football Club to
F.D.F.L. in regard to age groups within district competition. It was proposed that the age eligibility
for players to compete in B and C Grade increase as follows:
B Grade from under 18 to under 20 years and C Grade from under 16 to under 17 years.
Delegates to F.D.F.L. were appointed as follows:
A Grade R. Power, B Grade J. Lord, C Grade C. Cooke
R. Johnson was appointed as a manager for A Grade team.
It was reported that the normal Good Friday effort was held.
A smoke night was held on 14th April 1961.
The club organised a successful Barbecue event with catering as follows: 40 chops and 100 sausages
at price of 1 per serve.
The Club received a letter from Yarraville Football Club requesting players.
B. Rickards, the coach of A Grade team reported that the position of the team at the start of the
new 1961 season was 100% improvement on last season and he said that he was looking forward to
a good season. Mr Rickards suggested that the following selectors should be appointed; for A
Grade: Power, Johnson, Lord, Cooke and Rickards.
A dance was held at club rooms on night of 1st match.
Parkside, Spotswood and Albion were undefeated after first two rounds, in the 1961 season.
Parksides best players in win against the West Footscray were: Kevin Cross who booted a tally of
9.2, Gregory, R. Cunningham, R. Sorraghan, B. Moloney, B. Rickards and A. Ferris.

Maintaining an unbeaten run, Parkside accounted for North Foortscray in a rugged game. Best
players were Wright, Considine and Baker. Parkside 13.13 d. N. Footscray 8.7
In round four, Spotswood downed previously undefeated Parkside by nine points. It was an even
tussle, Parkside had outstanding players in Harper, Ferris and Considine.
Parkside had a four-goal win over Kingsville, and players contributing to success were Hodges,
Robinson and Falconer.
In round six Braybrook lost to Parkside. Parks best were ODonnell, Considine and Cross. Parkside
11.12 d. Braybrook 5.9
Parkside 9.12 d. St Albans 5.5
In big win against W. Newport, L. Coon scored 7 goals and Ferris 5.
Parkside 23.20 d. W. Newport 7.12
The Mail, July 1961
In August 17th 1961, Parkside was too strong for Maidstone. B. Rickards notched seven goals in big
win. Parkside 28.14 d. Maidstone 2.5
Parkside, Spotswood and Socials each finished home-and-away season with 56 points each.
The Mail, 24 August,1961
Semi-finals fixture for 1961 season

In one of the most remarkable polls in the history of the Footscray District Football League, seven
players each gained 13 votes for the A Grade best and fairest awaed.
The Mail, 31 August 1961
Parkside won its way into preliminary finals after convincingly defeating Seddon.
Parkside 15.18 d. Seddon 9.8
Midway through the last quarter Seddon tired and Parkside went right away. Best players, with goals
scored, for Parkside were Moloney (1), Gregory, Bendelli, Kavanagh, Ferris (4), Banes (4)and Baker.
Others to score were Cross (3), Rickards and Considine.
Although they played improved football in the second half, Spotswood were unable to counter a
determined Parkside, who won by 20 points. Parks outstanding players were Gregory, Bendelle,
Cunningham, Wright, Consodine, Russell, Moloney and Baker.
The 1961 grand final was a one-sided game. F & Y Socials won premiership after compellingly
defeated Parkside.
Final scores were: F & Y Socials 11.17.83 d. Parkside 5.11.41
B. Rickards reported that he was dissapointed in not winning premiership. He said that if players
stay with club and young members come up from B Grade then club shoul have good season in
1962.

Parkside football players and committee members had a successful trip to Horsham.
The 1961 Presentation Night was held on Friday November 10th .
Best and Fairest winners were:
A Grade J. Considine
B Grade M. Russell
C R. Barr
Footscray supporters queue to buy 1961 VFL Grand Final tickets outside Turner's Sports Store in
Nicholson Street, Footscray.

1962
The first committee meeting was held on Friday, February 2nd 1962. Mr Pascarl nominated R.
Gregory and John Lord as Life Members of the Parkside Football Club.
Parkside played a cricket match against Albert Social Club on Sunday, February 4th.
Once more, three teams entered in F.D.F.L. for a new 1962 season, A Open age, B U18 and C
U16. A cricket matches were held against Essex Socal Club and Morning Star.
F.D.F.L. awarded extra prize money to Premier teams in in FDFL.
Fines paid by Parkside to FDFL -1962 season
The 1962 season was set for 28th April, for A, B and C Grades, ending on Saturday, 25th
August.
Finals were planned for the period from September 1st to September 15th.
B. Rickards was reappointed as coach of A team at a salary of 5 per week. Training commenced
on Tuesday 13th March and he reported that approximately six new players joined the team.

Fiesta Hall was booked for a dance party subjected to the paymen of 20 deposit.
Kevin Gibson ran the much-loved Fiesta Bingo Hall in Paisley Street, Footscray
F.D.F.L. was held a Pennant Sunday Morning on 20th May 1962.
The price of refreshment at the dance on 15th May was determined on size of jugs.
L. Coon, the A Grade player was susspended after alleged involvement in an incident during
practice match.
Mr. Les Bills, F.D.L. secretary said, just days before the start of the 1962 season, that never before
had they commenced a season with such bright prospects. He anticipated that in all four divisions
there will be close contests.
The Parks won their first game of the1962 season against the Kingsville. Parkside 9.8 d. Kingsville 7.7.
Parksides best were: G. Pope, M. Russell (4), B. Rickards, A. Ferris (3), B. ODonnell and M. Kelly.
With 20 points each, Socials and Parkside headed the premiership list in the FDL A Grade, after
fifth round.
Three Parkside players represented the club in Adelaide playing for FDFL selection, they were; G.
Banes, T. Dudgeon and G. Pope.
B. Rickards reported on players who represented FDFL in Adelaide stressing that G. Pope was
awarded two trophies as best player.

Social secretary described that Ball was a great social success although run at a loss.
B.B.Q. was held on September 1st at 10 Harry Street, Maidstone.
The B team player L. Falla required an operation on his nose and he needed assistance towards
medical expenses.
With four matches to be played in FDFL A Grade section, composition of the final four is still in
doubt. Both Spotswood and Kingsville are only one game ahead of Albion. Parkside still remain
undefeated after 13 games
It was reported that function was held on Friday, 21st July 1962 at Builders Arms Hotel.
Builders Arms Hotel
The Builders Arms Hotel is a landmark public house on Gertrude Street, Fitzroy. Built in a time of
prosperity, it opened in 1853 and has been a meeting place of significance ever since.
Fitzroy was an important commercial zone in the 1850s. Due to its rapidly growing population, 33
new liquor licenses were issued for public houses in the area in that decade alone. Through the
decade earlier, seven hotels catered for Fitzroys population of 600.

The Builders Arms Hotel has long been a significant site for Melbournes Aboriginal community and is
part of the Fitzroy Aboriginal heritage walking trail. A plaque on the pubs faade reads:
This hotel was an important Aboriginal social and political gathering place from the 1940s to the
1980s. The Builders Arms Hotel offered an alternative meeting space to the Gore Street church and
earned national reputation as a Black Pub of Melbourne. It was here the Aboriginal people mixed
with the Fitzroy milieu and forged friendships with long-term residents and post-war immigrants that
populated the suburb.
The custodians of The Builders Arms Hotel today are Andrew McConnell and Anthony Hammond.
Respectful of its rich history and old bones, they have lovingly restored the pub over the years and
have ensured it remains a meeting place for locals.
http://buildersarmshotel.com.au/past-present/
On 2nd August 1962, B. Rickards informed committee that A Grade team continues with success
and retains unbeaten record. He stressed that he is very pleased with team.
Parkside ended 1962 home-and-away season with a game against Socials, defeating them by 17
points. Parkside 10.11 d. Socials 8.6
Best for Parkside were Gregory, Pope and Ferris.
The coach, B. Rickards stated that A team went through home and home games undefeated and
is confident of outcome of finals.
Parkside finished 1st with 68 points (238,7), Socials 2nd with 58 points (309,2), Kingsville 3rd with 52
points and Spotswood 4th with 44 points.
Parks Crash
In the other A Grade semi-final Parkside, previously undefeated, were soundly beaten by F. and Y.
Socials 11.15 to 5.16.
Socials, winning the toss at the Western Reserve, raced away to a five goal lead with the wind, and
defended grandly in the second term to keep Parkside out.

By defeating Kingsville in the A Grade preliminary FDFL final last Saturday, Parkside earned the right
to meet F and Y Socials in the grand final this weekend.
Up to the third quarter Kingsville look like winning easily, as they were faster to the ball and more
determined.
However, with five minutes to go before the end of the third term, Parkside rallied, and they were a
goal up at the final change.
Then came their four-goal burst which sealed Kingsvilles fate and put them out.
Although Parkside won they will need to improve in several positions if they are to win pennant.
Socials are favourites for the grand final mainly owing to their all-around ability to match Parkside in
every department.
A Grade Preliminary Final: Parkside 12.19 d. Kingsville 10.9
Best for Parkside were: Power, M. Cross, Watson, Rickards.

Parkside carried off the Footscray District Football League A grade premiership with a convincing
win over Spotswood in the Grand Final at Footscray Oval on Saturday.
Record crowds at the finals witnessed some of the most exciting finishes seen for many years.
In the A grade match, Parkside and Spotswood both gave stimulating displays of hard, robust foot-
ball.
Parkside, with an edge in class, were great in victory, but inaccurate Spotswood was certainly far
from disgraced in defeat.
Best players for Parkside were R. Ickeringill, L. Daglish, G. Rees, R. Griffin, D. Howie, J. Heathcote, T.
Watson, A. Condie, P. Meagher, G. Kavanagh.
Goals: J. Heathcote 7, Meagher 5. R. Turner 2, G. Rees, K. Thompson.
Best and fairest for the 1962 Season
Best and Fairest: G. Pope
2nd : M. Cross
Most Consistent: A. Ferris
Best 1st Year: G. Thompson
Most Improved: J. Morris
Most Determined: B. ODonnell
In appreciation of outstanding service rendered to the club, M. Russell was awarded, as well.
M. Russell was FDFL leading goalkicker with 57 scoring goals

Parkside Football Club Premiers 1962
Back: A. Grenfell, R. Duff, R. Hall, A. Ferris, G. Pope, K. Cross, T. Watson, J. Acreman (Vice President)
2nd Back: B. Wright (Comm.), R. Gregory (Comm.), G. Sullivan, B. DArcy, L. Cumming, R. Bentley, G.
Pyers, D. Baker, G. Wright, L. Kinniburgh (Comm.), E. OKeefe (V. President)
Centre: R. Boulter (Trainer), R. Charles (V. President), G. Kavanagh. K. Gregory, M. Cross, T. Dudgeon,
B. OKeefe, B. Cleary (Timekeeper), J. Loone (Comm.), P. Ferris (Trainer)
2nd Front: C. Cooke (Secretary), G. Bell, M. Russell, R. Power (V. Captain), H. Pascarl (President), B.
Rickards (Capt. Coach), B. ODonnell, F. Grubb, R. Johnson (Manager)
Front: W. Thompson, G. Foster (Mascot), G. Thompson, J. Lord (Boundary Ump.), G. Banes, N.

ODonnell, K. Banes (Mascot)
Absent: J. Morris
The End of Season trip was organised. This time the club travelled to Echuca, from October 12 to
October 14, 1962.
The Progress Hall was booked for presentation night in February 1963.

From the History of the WRFL/FDFL / written and compiled by Kevin Hillier

Mr D. Ross was nominated by President as a Life Member, on January 31st 1963.
PARKSIDE CLUB HAS TRADITION
Parkside Football Club, one of eight clubs which formed the A Grade of the Footscray District
League in 1931 has built an impressive record and a great tradition.
Parkside have failed to make the A Grade final four only six times since 1931. They have won eight
premierships, been runners up eight times, third on five occasions, and fourth on four occasions.
Their efficient young secretary, Mr. Charlie Cooke, is chairman of the F.D.L. executive, and three
other officials are F.D.L. life members. They are President Mr. Herb Pascarl, who has been with the
club 41 years, Mr. J. Gardiner, and Mr. L. Cheesman.
Others who have given wonderful service to the club include Mrs. A. O'Keefe, a life member since
1945, and Ron Charles, who has been with Parkside since 1935.
Parkside has produced four A Grade best and fairest trophy winnersJ. Sainsbury (1935)4, T. Laffan
(1936), S. Fox (1944), B. Murray (1954). Murray later captained Moorabbin in their first V.F.A.
premiership win.
Footscray F.C. also benefited from Parkside. A few seasons back they had Max Cross, and now have
Ken Duff, Colin Bendelle and Barry Wright.
At present there are 28 players who have played more than 50 games with the club including Bobby
Power (214), Kevin Cross (120), and Ron Cunningham (107).
Parks are keeping their good work this season. The A Grade team is unbeaten and favoured to
win the premiership.
The Mail, August 1962

Bills

Parkside Football Club: Statement of Receipts and Expenditure Season 1962
The 66th Annual Meeting was held at Federal Hall on February 17th 1963.
Notice of motion was submitted concerning alteration to constitution. It was suggested that rule 30
should be amended. The rule 30 referred that the position of coaches shall be appointed following
an annual meeting. The committee shall consider all applications and shall have power to elect a
coach or coaches for a period of not more than 3 years. Such election shall be binding on any
subsequent incoming Committee,
D. Ross was elected to the position of Life Member.
H. Pascarl was nominated and elected as President of Parkside Football Club for the 1963 season.
Also, the other office bearers were elected.

The club entered three teams in 1963 FDFL season consisting of A Open age, Under 18 and Under
16 years.
It was stated that Footscray Football Club had offered to put into operation a special effort to assist
club.
There were considered the two applications for coaching position, (B. Rickards and J. Wild) and it
was agreed that B. Rickards be appointed coach for a term of 2 years on salary of 5 per week.
Home part was held at home of N. Coats on Saturday, March 30th 1963.
A practice match was played against Rockbank Football Club in March 1963.
J. Loone suggested running a special effort on following lines:
Attempt to sell 250 tickets and price of ticket to be 5 where the first prize will be trip to Japan for
two or 500 cash.
The clearances were granted to G. Pope (Horsham), D. Hardy (Longerenong) and H. Darcy
(Braybrook).
Seddon Scout Hall was booked for 3rd Saturday in each month for regular dances.
Seddon Scout Hall, 1 Bellairs Ave, Seddon
FDFL together with districts clubs agreed that fees for umpires had to increase from the 1964
season as follows: A Grade 4.10.0, B Grade 4.0.0 and C Grade 3.10.0.
FDFL finances were in a poor position and an emergency meeting was called to discuss same.
Parkside committee advised its delegates to vote in favour of a rise in registration fees from 1 to 2
per player and an increase in affiliation fees from 2.2 to 6.6 per team
Social secretary informed committee that F and Y Socials Football Club were running a Miss FDFL
contest at their Annual Ball. They requested an entrant to be endorsed by Parkside Football Club.

FDFL together with districts clubs agreed that fees for umpires had to increase from the 1964
season as follows: A Grade 4.10.0, B Grade 4.0.0 and C Grade 3.10.0.
FDFL finances were in a poor position and an emergency meeting was called to discuss same.
Parkside committee advised its delegates to vote in favour of a rise in registration fees from 1 to 2
per player and an increase in affiliation fees from 2.2 to 6.6 per team
Social secretary informed committee that F and Y Socials Football Club were running a Miss FDFL
contest at their Annual Ball. They requested an entrant to be endorsed by Parkside Football Club.
It was agreed that the dance be held as a fancy dress event.
On Thursday 29th August, B. Rickards concluded that A Grade team won final match of the regular
season. He thanked committee for assistance during the season and was hopeful of a better season
next year. In the last round of the 1963 season Parkside defeated North Footscray.
Parkside 7.6 d. N. Footscray 2.9 and best for Parkside were Baker, Banes, Russell, Bentley, DArcy.
Premiership points at the end of the 1963 season
Accommodation was booked for trip away to Castlemaine.
Best and fairest voting disclosed that winners in each grade were as follows:
A Grade B Grade C Grade

1st- G. Kavanagh 1st- P. Meagher 1st K. Thompson
2nd R. Bentley 2nd R. Griffin 2nd G. Summers
3rd K. Goodman 3rd- A. Need 3rd G. Crick

K. Hillier wrote in his book that, By 1962 the league had grown to forty-one teams in three grades
with 1596 registered players. Parkside was undefeated in the home and away season, losing its first
game in the semi final to F & Y Socials. It won the 1962 Grand Final though, defeating F & Y Socials,
which had won the three previous flags. This was a historic win in many ways, making Parkside the
only club to have won an A Grade flag in every decade of the competition. Also, F & Y Socials
recorded what is still the lowest Grand Final score ever: 2.6.18.
Maidstone dropped out of the league at the end of the season and was replaced by Williamstown
CYMS. Kingsville went through the 1964 home and away season undefeated, with its only loss in the
semi final to Spotswood by a point; its revenge was to beat the Woodsman in the Grand Final by
twenty points.
APPALLING CONDITIONS" AGAIN FOR "PARKS
Parkside footballers will again have to put up with appalling dressing room facilities this season,
secretary Mr C. V. Cooke told the club's 67th annual meeting on Sunday.
Mr Cooke said the performances of the three Parkside teams last season were not up to the usual
standard of the club, all teams finishing out of the final four owing to a number of factors.
Not the least of these, he said, were the conditions under which players had to train and play.
The previous season clubrooms were burned out and the club was forced to use a pavilion in
Farnsworth-ave.
The committee had plans to erect new rooms, but Footscray Council decided it would try and
overcome the problem by endeavouring to get all sporting organisations in the area to support a
joint project.
"To this stage there has been a sad lack of support and consequently it appears that the club will
have no alternative but to face the appalling conditions of last season once again," Mr Cooke stated.
He expressed the hope that with support and enthusiasm members would overcome the difficulties
and lift the club to its former high standing.
Commenting on the A grade team's slip after winning the premiership in 1962, Mr Cooke said there
was a distinct lack of enthusiasm by the players in their attitude to training and in their failure to
observe team discipline.
"I am sure these matters will be rectified in the forthcoming season," he said.

Cooke thanked coach Brian Rickards, who has been re-appointed, for his effort to keep the A grade
players together, and for his work in organising social events both during the season and in the "off"
period.
In reviewing prospects for the coming season, he called upon the committee and coach of each team
to take stock and apply their efforts vigorously so that success on the field is assured. President Herb
Pascarl, Mr Cooke and treasurer John Lord, together with other officers, were re-elected.
Mr Cooke intimated that he will not be available to coach the B grade team this year owing to
private commitments.
Balance sheet presented to the meeting revealed that the club finished the season with balance of
271 in a turnover of 1391.
Team maintenance cost 361 while almost the entire income was from active social effort.
The Mail, March 5th, 1964
In April 1964, The Mail claimed that, Parkside also have their troubles owing to lack of decent
clubrooms and disinterest of young players, who are unwilling to use outmoded dressing facilities at
the park.
The Mail, April 16th, 1964
W. Newport defeated Parkside in 2nd round by 55 points. Best for Parkside were Watson, Banes,
ODonnell and Tempest.
Parkside beat North Footscray in May 1964 by 3 points. Scores were: Parkside 10.8 d. N. Footscray
9.11. Best for Parkside were Watson, Banes, Need and Ellwood.

Parkside finished the 1964 season in 10th place with 20 points, winning 5 games for the whole
season. Its hard to say it wasnt a disappointing season for the club.
Leader at the end of the 1964 season
Parkside Football Club Best abd Fairest for the 1964 season
Elvis Mania and Beatlemania in Footscray, The Mail 1964

Kennel Masters Give Awards
DISTRICT LEAGUE HAS BOOM IN SUPPORT
The Footscray District League faces the opening of the 1965 season with interest reaching peak
levels, which should go a long way to helping League and clubs enjoy a boom year.
Interest at the opening games on Saturday .on Saturday will be highlighted for successful clubs of the
1964 season with the unfurling of their premiership pennants, details of which follow:
Maidstone has been re-placed by Williamstown CYMS in open age, and Under 18 registration of
players is up on last year's figures.
The District League is on the eve of expanding with the advent of a possible Under 14 competition
and reconstruction of Rule 4 of the constitution.
A special meeting of all clubs and persons interested in an Under 14 competition is called by the
League secretary, Mr Goff McDonald (phone 314-7347), by advertisement in this issue. The meeting
will be held at Footscray Football Ground in the visitors' room at 10.45 am this Sunday.
The Executive Committee of the League has been working hard for the betterment of junior football
in the district, visiting all clubs and combining ideas for improvement.
Umpires' coach Wal Hopkins once again is in charge of umpires and clubs this year will benefit from
his experience and a good panel of keen umpires.
The Kennel Masters' gift of four medallions for the best and fairest footballers one for each section
has been gratefully accepted by the District League executive,
The FDL A Grade 1964 premiership flag will be officially unfurled on Saturday at Angliss Reserve prior
to the first home and home match of the season, at approximately 2 pm.
Representatives from the executive committee of the FDL will make the presentation to the Kingsville
FC, and the flag will be unfurled by Mrs D. McDonald, wife of the club president.
The Mail, April 25th 1965
In the first game of the 1965 season, Parkside defeated West Footscray by 35 points. Parkside 15.13
d. W. Footscray 10.8
In the second round Parkside conquered WCYMS, beating them by seven goals.
Parkside crushed North Footscray in round three. Parkside 12.6 d. N. Footscray 3.7.
The Mail wrote in June 24th 1965 that, In a hard pressure game at Footscray Park, West Newport
was overwhelmed by a relentless Parkside team, who played with tremendous determination.

Premiership Leader after eight rounds in the 1965 season
Parkside continued with a great form defeating Seddon. Parkside 16.20 d. Seddon 8.3
Towards the end of 1965 competition, Albion Football Club jeopardized the regularity of the season
expressing dissatisfaction with the condition of the Market-st. Reserve (Shorten) at West Footscray.
Parkside still showing football of the calibre to win finals pooled another four points. Their clash
this Saturday with Albion should be worth seeing.
Parkside played against Albion in the 1965 semi-final at Spotswood.

The large crowd present witnessed one of the greatest matches seen in the District League for
many a long day and if future final game are played in this manner the sporting public are in for a
feast of football at the Yarraville Football Ground.
The Mail, September 5th 1965
On last Saturdays form against well trained and disciplined Spotswood, Parkside showed all the
skills of a premiership side and their teamwork, coupled with unerring accuracy in front of a goal,
makes them formidable next Saturday in the grand final.
Parkside 7.11 d. Spotswood 8.22
Parksides best against Spotswood were Murphy (2), Cross (6), Kavanagh (3), G. Thompson (2),
Witchell, Watson, Crick.

Parkside made the Grand Final in 1965, losing to Albion 11 points.
This FDFL game was highlighted by tremendous pressure placed on Albion right from the jump by
Parkside, but the Albion team got their goals on the board early and lasted out till the final siren to
win by 11 points.
Parkside although beaten, were not disgraced and fought the game right out to the finish, their
fitness being a credit to popular coach Lindsey Murphy.
Both teams must be congratulated on an excellent performance.
Grand Final Scores:
Albion 14.11 d. Parkside 12.12

Parkside Football Club Runners-Up Season 1965
Back Row: R. Johnson (Comm.), G. Pyers, D. Baker, J. Mitchell, J. Lord (Boundary Umpire), A. Need,
N. OConnor, R. Sorraghan
2nd Back Row: G. Wright, R. Bentley, J. Mason, B. DArcy, R. Power, P. McGraw, B. Summers, G.
Crick, L. Kinniburgh (Comm.)
2nd Front Row: R. Charles (Vice President), R. Boulter (Social Secretary), G. Thompson, T. Watson, P.
Cocks (President), L. Murphy (Captain and Coach), K. Thompson, A. Grenfell (Vice President), C.
Cooke (Secretary)
Front Row: R. Griffin, G. Murphy (Mascot), J. Todd, D. Murphy (Mascot), R. Bentley
In the A grade division some exciting matches were witnessed. Albion, premiers last year, were
extended to scrape home by two points from a determined Braybrook.
St Albans a much improved side from last year, fought out a close finish to defeat Socials by five
points.
Last year's runners-up, Parkside, also just got home from Kingsville, another improver, by seven
points.
In the Reserves, Under 18 division a great game was witnessed between old rivals in Seddon,
defeating West Footscray by four points.

The evenness of the Un-der 16 No. 1 division is evidenced by the closeness of the games. Seddon
drew with Kingsville and in a game with fluctuating fortunes Spotswood defeated West Footscray by
one goal after being down by four goals at lemon time.
Highlight of this match was the fine exhibition of umpiring by young Mick Dye.
Parkside defeated Kingsville in both grades. The A Grade win produced good players in Meagher
(3), McGraw, Griffin, Cross,K. Thompson, Need, OConnor (3).
Best for B team were Heathcote, Ickeringall , Sheppard, Annear. Others to score were Hart (2),
White, Blake, Barber.
In the second round in the 1966 season St Albans beat Parkside by 4 points. In round three, West
Footsray was better, defeating Parkside 7.9 to 4.9.
In round five Spotswood defeated Parkside by 33 points. Parkside was better in the clash against
Albion in round six. The next round Parkside defeated Braybrook, 16.10 to 10.7.
During the season break this contemplative headline from the Mail, published in June 1966,
reaffirms initial reasons for existence of FDFL which was projected and established as a breeding
ground for talents that can primarily play for the seniors of Fooytscray Football Club.
While clubs never relish the idea of losing boys they took pride in seeing their proteges making
senior ranks.
Parkside was impressive in win against Seddon. Parkside 20.17 d. Seddon 7.2.

Parkside showed respectable form approaching the finals. Parkside 12.13 d. W.Footscray 8.10.
Parkside were best served by Turner, R. Dawson, Griffin, Bentley, DArcy and Duff.
All Parkside players teamed well for an excellent win over Albion in the last game of the 1966 regular
season. Parkside 14.15 d. Albion 8.6
Goalkickers were Heathcote (6), Duff (2), Roadway, Need, Griffin, Meagher, Beatley and OConnor.
Parkside opponents in semi-final were West Footscray.

More than 3000 spectators attended the 1966 semi-finals. Parkside proved too strong and
experienced for dogged west Footscray team. After an even first half, Parkside applied pressure
football and came out comfortable winners.
FDFL the 1966 semi-finals; Parkside 15.21 d. West Footscray 8.5 and St Albans was winner against
Kingsville. St Albans 16.12 d. Kingsville 13.8
Parksides U16 (Div2) qualified for the grand final defeating St Albans by 3 goals.
Parkside player, R. Ickerinigill won U18 FDFL Best and Fairest award for 1966.
FDFL 1966 finals will be remembered for bringing two drawn games for the two Parkside teams who
played their finals the same day.
This is a short description how these peculiar finals unfolded, written by The Mail reporters.
In the A Grade final fluctuating fortunes firstly Kingsville with a four-goal lead at half time and
looking likely winners, was pegged by Parkside, who gained an eight-point lead with four minutes to
go and then to see Kingsville recover to get up and make an exciting draw.
Parksides best players in the draw with Kingsville were Murphy, Bentley, Heathcote, Baker, Watson
and Turner.
Another drawn game was witnessed in the U-16 (Div2) grand final.
ICI Deer Park stopped to a walk in the last quarter and allowed a never-say-die effort by Parkside
lads to get up and make a drawn game.
Players to stand out were Morgan, Sainsbury, OGorman, R. Miller, Zombolas and Starford.
They will now fight out a replay this week at Skinner Reserve, commencing at 10a.m.
Kingsville, by completely outpointing Parkside in the replay of the A Grade preliminary final, in
which these two sides played a draw the previous week, has earned right to play St. Albans in the A
Grade grand final.
A Grade replay preliminary final, Kingsville 14.13 d. Parkside 8.9
In U-16 (Div2) replay grand final, ICI Deer Park deafeated Parkside by 16 points.
ICI Deer Park 7.6 d. Parkside 5.2

1967 saw further progress in the strengthening of FDFL within the Victorian Football Union.
This week sees commencement of the 1967 season for the Footscray District League, which now
emerges as the equal biggest metropolitan district football league in the Victorian Football Union.
With more than 70 teams and 2500 registered players, and its ever increasing numbers of followers
the season promises to be most successful and exciting on record.
Recruiting in all clubs has been intense and battle for 1967 promises to be very keen.
The Mail, 13 April 1967
It was not secret that clubs emphasis was unquestionably focused on the 1967 premiership trophy.
A rhetorical dilemma articulated in the question, does the pain of losing finals and, particularly the
Grand Final, ever go away, has found an answer in a strong commitment and determination in all
departments within the club.
At the start of the 1967 season, Parkside Football Club encountered a confusing situation regarding
the clubs dressing rooms.
Players strip on river bank
Footballers had to strip on the Maribyrnong River bank on Saturday because of long delays in
opening a new sports pavilion.
Parkside Football Club secretary, Mr. Charlie Cooke said that last Saturday for the opening of the
season junior players had to undress by the riverside.
If the rooms are not ready next Saturday two teams of senior players would have to use "the bushes"
as their dressing-room.

Mr. Cooke said that to all outward appearances the pavilion, being constructed for Footscray council
on Henry Turner Memorial Reserve, was completed last November.
There were delays when it was found there was no water reticulation and pipes had to be run from
Nicholson Street, but he could not understand the hold up now.
Mr. Cooke said several clubs were awaiting use of the new pavilion.
Fifty juniors would use it this Saturday morning if it were open, and the two senior teams would
require it in the afternoon.
The deputy city engineer, Mr. Ken Meekcoms, explained on Tuesday that any delays in opening were
completely out of the hands of the council as the construction was taking place on contract.
In the past week the council had refused to take possession because of certain aspects of the job
which were considered not to be up to standard.
Until the builders put the faults right the pavilion could not be opened.
The Mail, April 13th 1967
1967 Season
The opening of the 1967 FDFL season saw a number of surprises and a marked change from last year
in the composition of many teams, particularly in junior grades.
Parksides senior team showed excellent form in its first match of the season against Williamstown
CYMS. Final scores were; Parkside 17.25 d. Williamstown CYMS 7.12

Best for Parkside were Kavanagh, Griffin, Meagher, Need, J. Meagher, R. Meagher, DArcy and
Ickeringill.
In the U16 competition, Parkside, with only 14 players, battled all days against the weight of
numbers. Credit must go to all players for their effort. Best players for Parkside against Seddon were
R. Miller, Sainsbury, Bell and Morgan.
Braybrook was better against Parkside in the U14 competition. A very young Parkside team, with
only 16 players, played well against stronger Braybrook opposition.
Deficit of players in all junior grades became a prolonged problem for the club.
In April 1967, Parkside placed an advertisement in The Mail, calling juniors players to join the club.
In the second round Parkside Seniors demolished F&Y Socials despite a horrible kicking accuracy.
Parkside 12.30 d. F&Y Socials 5.9
In the third round Kingsville downed Parkside in a hard vigorous match highlighted by several full-
blooded clashes. Kingsville 10.6 d. Parkside 8.7

Parkside defeated North Footscray by in the fifth round by 104 points.
1967 Premiership Ladder after five rounds
In round six, in a hard game, Parkside was able to get the break over ICI Deer Park in the last quarter
to win well.
Parkside 9.13 d. ICI Deer Park 5.8
Best players for Parkside were Heathcote, Griffin, Need, Summers and Wilson.
Parksides good form continued, defeating Albion in round seven and Braybrook by 10 goals in round
eight.
Halfway through the 1967 season, Kingsville emerged as a real favourite to win premiership.
The Mail claimed that, Parkside and Spotswood on present form should hold their places in the
four.
Parkside showed good form in downing a confident West Footscray in round nine. Parkside 12.13 d.
W. Footscray 9.8. Parksides best were Whitaker, J. Heathcote, Daglish and Ickeringill.
Towards the end of season Seddon surprised Parkside and won with a high score.
Parkside was managing to pull off a convincing win against Williamstown CYMS. 16.15 to 7.3

1967 Premiership Ladder after twelve rounds
KINGSVILLE trailed Parkside all day in FDL match of the year on Saturday, but was able to peg back
Parkside take the lead in the last term and hang on until siren.
Parkside goes to Spotswood this week and the loser will have to make way for Seddon to enter the
four.
TheMail, July 20, 1967
Spotswood lost its top four place to Seddon after going after going down to Parkside.It was a hard-
hitting match, in which Parkside broke through with two quick goals in the final stages, to take the
home points. Parkside 11.12 d. Spotswood 11.3

In following rounds Parkside defeated North Footscray by 62 points. Albion was crushed by 61 points
An amazing last round of home and away matches, in which three top teams were defeated, was a
climax of a great battle for the final four.
In its last round Parkside defeated St. Albans by 13 points. Parkside 11.12 d. St. Albans 9.11
Seniors finished second on the ladder in 1967 season with 60 points.
All semi-finals were played in cold, bleak conditions. Parkside won their way into the Grand Final
when they defeated Kingsville by one point in a thrilling finish of the A grade semi-final in the
Footscray District Football League on Saturday.
Parkside 5.7.37 d Kingsville 4.12.36
Parksides best players were: Howie, Daglish, DArcy, Kavanagh, Griffin, Murphy, Thompson, Condie,
Rees, Whittaker.
Goals: Turner 2, Meagher, Rees, Whittaker.

Parkside finished too strongly for Spotswood, to take out the Footscray District Football League A
grade premiership with a convincing win over Spotswood in the Grand Final at Footscray Oval on
Saturday.
Record crowds at the finals witnessed some of the most exciting finishes seen for many years.
In the A1 grade match, Parkside and Spotswood both gave stimulating displays of hard, robust
football.
Parkside, with an edge in class, were great in victory, but inaccurate Spotswood were certainly far
from disgraced in defeat.
Best players for Parkside were R. Ickeringill. L. Daglish, G. Rees, R. Griffin, D. Howie, J. Heathcote, T.
Watson, A. Condie, P. Meagher, G. Kavanagh. Goals: J. Heathcote 7, Meagher 5. R. Turner 2, G. Rees,
K. Thompson.
It was a brilliant end to an excellent season.
Parksides under age 1967 best and fairest winners were:
U18: G. Rees, 1; K. Hardy,2; R. Cheesman, 3.
U16: G. Morgan, 1; A. Sainsbury, 2;
U14: R. Miller, 3. U. 14: Ray Johnson, 1; R. Rice, 2; G.Johnson, 3.

Back Row: R. Boulter (Com.), J. Lord (Treasurer), B. Summers, J. Mitchell, W. Middleton, A. Grenfell
(Vice-President), P. McGraw, D. Howie, R. Bentley, B. Cox (Time Keeper), W. Ackerly (V. President)
3rd Row: G. Wright (Com.), R. Shepherd, R. Turner, A. Whittaker, J. Heathcote, A. Need, K. Rodway,
R. Heathcote, A. Need, K. Rodway, R. Heathcote, A. Condie, T. Watson, J. Mason, R. Charles (Vice
President)
2nd Row: B. Rickards (Soc.Sec.), L. Kinniburgh (Vice President), J. Bentley, P. Meagher, B. DArcy
(Vice Captain), P. Cocks (President), L. Murphy (Captain & Coach), K. Thompson
Front Row: L. Daglish, R. Griffin, J. Caldwell, D. Murphy, G. Murphy (Mascots), V. De Young, G. Rees
Absent: R. Ickeringill, G. Kavanagh, B. Dolphin

McEwans 216-226 Barklay Street Footscray 1967
Unfurling of Parksides premiership flag took place on Saturday, with Mrs. Phil Cox, wife of the
president, officiating, and having to make a special trip down from Dromana for the occasion.
Parks also had a good win on Saturday thanks to five goals kicked by Peter Meager, who played to
help the side-out, while waiting on a clearance (which will be granted), although at least one official
has not given up hope of persuading him to stay at the club.
Bob Turner was official runner on Saturday and it is thought that he will be soon stripping in the
black and white colors again this season.
Parks also could have the services of an experienced, but somewhat rotund ex-League player in the
near future. The form is ready Charlie; all it needs is your signature.
*****
Parksides FCs new rooms were officially opened by the Mayor of Footscray (Cr Rupe Bassett)last
Saturday. Official guests Cr. Reg Argaet; FDFL president Mr. Lex Maxwell, FDFL treasurer, Mr.
Laurie Richardson and FDFL executive member Mr. Doug Moore were welcomed by Parkside
president Mr. Phil Cocks.
The mayor spoke highly of the Parkside club in endeavouring to help themselves in the project, since
their old clubrooms were burnt down in 1961.Main force behind the building of the new rooms has
been ex-coach Brian Rickards ably assisted by members Alf Grenfell, Charlie Cook and Jack Whitty.
*****
Although Parksides A grade team cant take a trick, their U-16s fielded 20players for the first
time this season and, although well beaten by west Footscray, coach Charlie Cooke (also the clubs

secretary) has high hopes for his boys, Brian Clark, Ross Matheson and Alan Dalton are three who
showing promise.
New faces in their A reserves side included Neville OConnor, who booted two of the sides four
goals, and Bubs Thompson, back with the club after a year in Queensland.
Parks will hold a dance-social at 10th Footscray Scout hall this Saturday. (Hall is situated in Graham
Street, near the West Footscray YMCA).
The Parkside have been the big disappointment. Premiers last year they have only managed two
wins against lower sides and must now start to rebuild to bring them back to the force they are
renowned for. The loss of some eight players from lasts year premier side has been too big a gap to
bridge.
Another black day for Parks saw both senior teams easily defeated and also their under-18 side go
down at the hands of Albion. Officials at Parkside had high hopes for their under-18 side this year
(especially after their first win for 15 years against Spotswood the week before).
The club experienced another setback when a new pavilion was vandalised, just days after its official
opening.
*****
PAVILION RUINED IN VANDAL RAIDS
Council report
Shocking damage and thefts had almost completely ruined a modern new pavilion within three
weeks of it being built at Henry Turner Memorial Reserve, Footscray council was told on Monday
night.
Cr. Rupe Bassett startled sonic councillors with his disclosures. He said he regarded the do mage as so
serious he suggested photographs be taken. This was done by The Mail with his help. The pictures
will appear next week.
Last April the new pavilion was erected at the Reserve for use by the clubs as a changing room and
with general clubroom.
This pavilion was built at a cost of $20.000 and included:
Tiled shower recesses operated by coin-in-the-sloth meters.
Stainless steel sinks and urinals.
Two spacious changing rooms to be used by the clubs.

An umpires' changing room complete with t shower and toilet separate ladies' and gents'
toilets.
A store room where the cricket clubs could store matting and other equipment.
Now after having been in use for only four and a half months windows are broken;
Meters have been wrenched open leaving exposed "live" wires.
*****
Another "black day" for Parks saw both senior teams easily defeated and also their under-18 side go
down at the hands of Albion.
Officials at Parkside had high hopes for their under-18 side this year (especially after their first win
for 15 years against Spotswood the week before).But it now looks as if Albion is the side to beat in
this section.
However, the under- 14's carried on their good form from the week before when they overcame the
loss of captain, Michael Crick.
Michael was born on the first of March and thus declared an under-16 player) to win their first ever
game in the competition, in scoring good win over Kingsville.
Anne Myers, Miss Footscray 1968

*****
Parkside are still losing games and although notorious slow starters in recent years, they do not look
to have the side this year to make the finals! One player who should prove an asset to the team is
John Londkowski, from Yarraville seconds, a rover and half-forward, who played well in his first game
with the club last Saturday.
In a hard game, of which an "all in" brawl was a feature, there were no reports apart from an
unfortunate "runner" for abusing the umpire. (Not allowed to mention any names), one Park's player
who seemingly won't be enjoying his adult privileges.
*****
Parkside have been the big disappointment. Premiers last year they have only managed two wins
against lower sides and must now start to rebuild to bring them back to the force they are renowned
for. The loss of some eight players from last years premier side has been too big gap to bridge.
*****
Parkside youngster Terry Brett literary walked away with the Under-14 voting. On 69 votes he polled
almost maximum possible and won easily from Stephen Kelly 33. Parks cabaret dance will be held at
the Graham St. Scout on Saturday. Admittance is $1, double with refreshment and supper available.
The Mail, August 14, 1968
*****
Leo Daglish has won Parksides seniors best and fairest award by one vote from captain-coach
Lindsey Murphy, with Ray Heathcote third. Murphy has polled exceptionally well considering he
missed the past five games through suspension, but has intimidated that he will not accept a trophy
from the club as he feels being coach he should not have been included in the voting.
A Reserves voting was won by Graham Mick Banes, 34, from Ello Rigon and Gary Backus, equal on
16.
Under 18 captain Geoff Rees took off the best and fairest award on 29 votes followed by George
Morgan and Alan Sainsbury on 15.
In the under16s Gary Johnson 35, won from Ross Matheson25 and Peter Flack 25.
This Sunday Parks will hold a picnic day at Gisborne and a present v. old players match will played
and the drawing of the special effort for the building appeal held.

By the end of the 1960s, after the 1967 flag, the club was significantly weakened by the departure of
several members of its premiership side.
Declines in top results on the field had continued into the next decade. In fact, the 1970s left the
club without winning any premierships in A Grade.
Unfortunately, 1969 will be remembered for bringing one of the most deadly fire events in Victoria,
a terrible blaze in Lara that killed 17 people. Gary Dempseys story testifies how football can
strengthen not only individual but all community which was able to recover from this disaster.
Footscray footballer Gary Dempsey almost lost his life in the Lara fires spending seven weeks in
hospital. 20 years old Dempsey had only played two seasons with Footscray, he was told he would
never play football again. He came back to take his total to 329 games with the Bulldogs and North
Melbourne, winning the Brownlow Medal in 1975.

It was already said that Parkside knocked over arch rivals Spotswood in the 1967 Grand Final.
But, the 1967 season was fundamental for shaping the future of FDL which witnessed an
introduction of financial rewards and incentives for players.
Kevin Hillier stresses that, Neville OConnor, a Parkside and League Life Member, remembers that
year as pivotal in the future of the club and the league:
The first time money came into Parkside was in 1967the coach was the only one getting paid and
Lindsay Murphy was coach. Lindsay came to us halfway through the season and said, This fellow will
play with us but he wants something like four pounds a game. So we got four people from outside
the committee to put in a pound a weektwo of those people are still involved with the club. This
bloke came from Williamstown and he played in the 1967 premiership and virtually won it. He was
the first player that actually got paid.
Hillier summarizes the end of 60s claiming that, by 1968 all twelve A Grade teams had reserves. The
competition was strong, and from Under 14 to open age the FDFL fielded seventy-three teams in
seven grades and had 2571 registered players.
History of the WRFL/FDFL / written and compiled by Kevin Hillier, 2007
Flinders Street Station, Melbourne 1969

1969
North's Terry Flint has resigned but has intimated he will continue on as a player, while Parksides
Lindsay Murphy has also decided to quit after five years.
Murphy 34 feels he's getting too old for football, but he would still be a very valuable player in FDL
ranks. An experienced ruckman - he played 120 games with Williamstown, he has led Parks to a
premiership and a runners- up in his five years with the club and is one of the FDL's best known
identities.
Geoff Rees has won Parks best and fairest award from Leo Daglish and Ron Sheppard.
*****
Parkside Under 16's win their first game for two and a half seasons against North Footscray last
Saturday and the win is all the more meritorious because they had only 16 men. --
Captain of the side is Gary Johnstone, who won the club's Under 16 best and fairest trophy last year
and they have a most promising ruckman in Ron McGregor. Coach is Graeme "Hooker" Wright.
*****
Two youngsters who show enough potential to perhaps follow in their father's footsteps one day
are Dale Murphy and Stephen Cross. Dale, 10, and Stephen 12, are the sons of Parkside captain coach
and former Williamstown footballer Lindsay Murphy and former Parkside and Footscray goalsneak

Max Cross respectively. Both have been winning their share of kicks in the Under 14's under the
watchful eye of Coach George Crick.
Parkside will hold their presentation night-dance at the 10th Footscray scout hall (near West
Footscray YMCA).
*****
Parks on the other hand has Geoff Rees and former player Tom Watson back in the side.
Rees had been 19th man with Footscray Thirds the week before and when he was again picked on
the bench last week, was allowed to come back and have a run, while Watson is an experienced
player who missed the whole of last season. Tom has played 120 odd games with the club and was
best fairest player in 1966.
*****
*****
Twelve-year-old Colin Rees is the fourth Rees brother to play with Parkside within the past 10 years.
Colin, 12, fronted with Under 14s and follows in the footsteps of Rod and Keith, who both played in
junior ranks, but not senior football, and Geoff, who is currently playing with the senior side as well
as Footscray Thirds.
*****
Who needs superheroes when you have a brother!
The Germaine brothers of Glenroy (1967/2017) all 10 of them played at the same club at the same time in 1967 (source; H.Sun)

Parkside Football Club (1970 1979) [vol.1]
Miscellaneous Newspapers Snippets
*****
Pie Night (Australian)
A social occasion at which pies and beer are served.
pie nights were an institution in footy clubs
https://en.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/pie_night
Parkside's nuggety rover Ray Griffen has had a windfall this weekend with the drawing of the club's
special effort. In fact Ray has five hundred reasons to be particularly pleased with himself, but what
he doesn't know yet is that the next pie night for the players is on him. Ray's winning ticket was 134
with Barry Cleary (102) and K. Alderfield (182) taking off the second and third prizes.
Back on the football side, Ray's good form coupled with that of second rover Leo Daglish and
ruckmen Terry Rosewarne, George Morgan and Lindsay Murphy is one reason behind the side's
improved performances resulting in a good win over Seddon last Saturday.
*****
Latest addition to Parksides line-up is blonde Footscray Tech. ruckman Terry Rosewarne, who
crossed over from the Amateurs last Saturday.
Rosewarne should be a big help to captain-coach Lindsay Murphy, who has had to carry the Parks
rucks for many years.
*****

*****
Parkside's committee has decided that their Under 18 side will not play any more Sunday games .at
home (Footscray Park). A letter from the club, to be considered by: the FDL executive tonight
(Wednesday) asks whether the club can be permitted to play their under 18 matches on Saturdays.
Alternatives given are either at 2.30 p.m. or as a curtain raiser to the senior games, and if the FDL do
not agree to these terms for all games, at least "home" games.
Parkside's request has a good chance of being al-lowed, as the umpires also have sent a letter to the
executive saying that they will not umpire games at 'Parkside on Sundays without police protection.
FDL executive has decided against allowing Parkside to play all their remaining Under 18 home
matches on Saturday. Executive took the view that they are trying to foster Under 18 football on
Sundays and were not going to be dictated to by hooligans.
The executive has asked for police protection to be provided at future games as was the case last
Sunday when no trouble was experienced.
Parksides view that they are willing to go together with executives ruling and will continue to field a
side as long as they have the players.
The Mail, July 1970
*****
Parkside stalwart Brian Darcey played his 200th game with the club last Saturday against Albion to
climax a career that started back in 1955 as a 12 year-old with the Under 16's.
Brian, the sides back-pocket player was vice- captain for the past four years - he relinquished the post
this season and captained the 1967 premiership side when coach Lindsay Murphy was out injured.
On Saturday he was givena guard of honor by both teams and presented with an engraved pewter
mug after the match.
A Reserves player Brian Darcey played his 200th match for Parks last Saturday, and Under 18 player
Greg .Mayne, his 50th.
*****
Parkside captain-coach Barry Beattie, with 18 marks and 32 kicks for the match, was the
outstanding player in the Parkside- Kingsville match.

Officials feel that at even this early stage he would be a good tip for the best and - fairest award if he
could continue with his good form.
Parks look like being a vastly improved side this year, and could make the four.
Vice-captain to Beattie this season is Leo Daglish, while Mick Banes is captain-coach of the A
Reserves.
Former Footscray and Sunshine player Graeme Bean has been appointed coach of the club's Under
16 side, while former coach Lindsay Murphy is coach of the newly-formed Under 12's.
Murphy was picked to play last Saturday, but dropped out at the last minute of his own accord, but
he could -again be seen in the black and white colors before very long.
*****
Former Parkside captain-coach Lindsay Murphy made a comeback at full- forward last Thursday
and indirectly contributed greatly to the team's win. Opponents were so intent on stopping him
scoring that Peter Meagher, for one, was allowed to continue on his merry way kicking goals. Hes
kicked seven in the two past matches. Parkside Under 18s are battling for players and look like
following Seddons lead in withdrawing if things dont improve. Any players interested are asked to
come to practice on Tuesday or Thursday nights and ask for Coach Peter Meagher.
*****
Parkside U14s scored its highest ever score since the formation of the side when it kicked 29.42
against Footscray Tech. on Saturday. However it is understood Tech. have been struggling for players
and only fielded a side under a threat of expulsion from the competition if they failed to do so.
*****
One of the best innovations to be introduced into the FDL for some time should come into force
either on Saturday or the week after. It will be the roping off of the goal square areas at grounds
which are not enclosed and this includes Footscray Park, Hanmer Reserve, Angliss Reserve to name
but three.
Good idea because only the goal umpire will be allowed within 35 feet of the goals, and so no-one
will be able to tell him his job.
*****
Braybrook played great wet weather football to down Parkside in Saturdays match of the day. The
Brooks were in better command of the ball and backed up better then Magpies to run out winners by
21 points.

Parkside caused the shock of the week in FDL football with a sound 8 point win over the powerful
Albion side on Saturday. The Magpies were too good for the bustling Albion combination and their
better teamwork was deciding factor.
*****
May 2nd 1970
The demands of being coach and player began to take a toll on Ted Whitten Sr.s ageing body in
1970. He played only four games in the season to break Dick Reynolds VFL record of 320 games and
then announced his retirement.

*****
The Spotswood-Parkside F.D.L. match of the day can premature finish on Saturday when the umpire
refused to continue following an all-in donnybrook between players and spectators.
Umpire Ian McDonald called off the game after a pushing and shoving mass of players and
spectators traded punches following an incident in which several players clashed. The game had been
free of fire until three quarter time, but livened up early in the last term when a Parkside player was
reported. No reports followed up the brawl and no points have yet been awarded for the match
although Spotswood had a comfortable lead when umpire McDonald called the game off.
The executive will meet tonight to discuss the game and charges will probably be heard against
people involved in brawl.
Parksides best (in the game that ended sensationally) were: Need, Dolphin, Watson, Crouch, Murphy
and Beattie.
*****
The Brooks were unable to hold the Parkside and while they were fighting desperately for the place
in the finals.
Parkside 10.14(74) d. Braybrook 10.11(73)

Melbourne 1970
*****
Parkside are proving "giant killers" so far this season and have already accounted for previously
undefeated sides in Albion and West Footscray.
Improvement is in part due to the return of the Heathcote brothers: John and Ray.
They gave away football for a season to concentrate on sowing with a surf club and finished as
members of the Victorian surf boat crew which was runner-up in the Australian titles.
Another player who officials are hoping to persuade to play again this season is chunky rover Ray
Griffin the club's best and fairest winner two seasons ago.
*****
Interesting report in one Under 14 FDL match on Saturday, Parkside youngster was reported for
alleged misconduct in that he moved the goal post while an opponent was having a shot for a goal.
Hard to know if the incident was as serious as it might sound because according to my information
the movement of the goal post was only slight.

And the field umpire, particularly in this grade of football, should warn offending players before
reporting them in cases such this.
The Mail, 20 May 1970
*****
Parksides under 12s captain, James Caldwell, who started playing with the club as a 10 year old in
the Under14s, played his 50th game with the club last Saturday.
And this side, which comprises some very young players, should be a force in the competition for at
least the next two years.
Because, apart from Caldwell, every player in the side including stars like Tony Brbott, Trevor
Scgrodde, Glenn Jenner, Dale Murphy and Lee Brett can play for another two seasons.
*****
Parkside should be strengthening by the return of the Heathcote brothers, Ray and John, and Peter
Meagher for their cut throat match against Kingsville this Saturday.
The clubs Under 16s combination could be battling for the rest of the season due to the loss of its
most important two players in first and second rovers Terry Brett and Trevor Godwin. Brett has a
broken wrist, while Godwin had to have a nose operation, and both could be out for the rest of the
season.
Still captain Wayne Davis is leading the side well, and coach Graeme Bean (the Sunshine footballer) is
showing good senior coaching potential with the "kids.
*****
Parkside pipped leaders Albion in the main senior section Footscray District League match on
Saturday to hold onto fourth place.
Parkside 10.14 d. Albion 9.14

*****
*****
All games were affected badly by the strong gusty wind, and most grounds had dried out into hard
surfaces which tested the players.
Spotswood consolidated their position with a good win over St. Albans. Parkside, hoping for a
Kingsville loss, got a big percentage booster over F&Y Socials.
In brilliant touch with Parkside were Heathcote, Rees, Crouch, Beattie and Rice.
*****
This week has been an exceptional one for the McGraw family who are closely associated with
Parkside. This Saturday, Paul McGraw former Maidstone player, will play his 150th FDL game.
But Last Saturday his wife Gloria presented him with their first child, and last Sunday, Paul s father
Tom, a former FDL registrar and executive member, won $1000 in Parksides special effort.
Dont know if father and son had a two-way interest in the winning prize, but nonetheless Parkside
officials hope a pie night on the house, could be in the offing.
*****
Parkside Under 12 full back Andrew Barnard coped a broken leg against Braybrook two weeks ago
and although his injury is fairly serious with break in two places. Andrew is taking it all light-
heartedly.
In fact he's taken to collecting as many autographs as he can on his plaster cast.
*****

Parkside lost its place four players in the A Grade four after a defeat at hands of Kingsville last
Sunday, but officials rate it a good performance to be beaten by only 11 points with only four players
"trying".
And a quiet tip for the A Grade best and fairest Tis said Parkside captain-coach Barry Beattie was
slightly ahead at the latest count, and he would have received another three votes last Saturday.
*****
Parkside Under 12 youngster Dale Murphy, son of former A Grade coach Lindsay Murphy, has bolted
in with the club's best and fairest award yet still has two years left to play in this division.
Dale won with 88 votes from Tolly Brbot (42) who finished second on a countback from Lee Brett,
also 42.
Under 16 captain Wayne Davis won the club's best and fairest trophy with 31 votes from Ray Kelly
(27) who was second on a countback from Stephen Cook, also 27.
*****
Parkside captain coach and former Footscray footballer Barry Beattie has taken off the FDL A Grade
best and fairest award --in his first year in the competition.

Beattie polled 25 votes (five first, four second, and two third) to beat West captain Bruce Cuthbertson
(22) and Kingsville youngster Glenn Gingell (16)
Barrie Beattie receives his Footscray guernsey from coach Ted Whitten,prior to his VFL debut, 1964
*****
Parkside captain-coach Barry Beattie has had celebrations all round recently. Not only was he the
first Parkside player for 21 years to take off one for best and fairest award. His wife Erica presented
him with a baby girl.
To top of an excellent season Beattie also won clubs best and fairest awards with 63 votes from Ian
Jones (affectionate) known as Yogi and who also did particularly well in his first year with the club
with 33 and Jeff Rees 31.
Parksides last FDL A Grade best and fairest winner was Bruce Murray back in 1949
https://aso.gov.au/titles/historical/footscray-1971/clip1/
*****
Overall, the 1970 season was a rather in and out year for Parkside. A grade just missed the four; A
Reserves, Under 18s, Under 16s, and Under 12s struggled all year, while Under 14s made four.

The 1971 FDFL season was opened in extremely hot weather.
The chronic junior player shortage seemed to have surfaced again at start of the 1971 season.
FDLF boss in his interview for The Mail in 1971 was a very critical of young people in western
suburbs.
*****
Youth Is Lazy - F.D.L president
Three teams have been withdrawn from Footscray District League competitions because of lack of
players.
And FDL president, Mr. Bob Dye, this week attacked teenagers par-ticularly the 17 to 19 age
group for its non-parti-cipation in active sport.
He said he would not mind so much if the young men were playing some sport other than football
but unfortunately they had taken the role of sporting spectators.
In many cases they were getting themselves into trouble and making a nuisance of themselves, he
said.
Mr. Dye said the lack of participation could be due to present trends such as availability of motor
cars, interest in girls, too much money and to a lesser extent greater involvement in studies.
But he also put it down pure laziness and apathy towards keeping themselves fit.
Mr. Dye said the FDL executive had been aware of the situation for several seasons, but alarming fall
off this year. He added that several clubs were battling to keep Under 18 sides on the field.
One club which had 134 registered players last year had a mere 22 registered at the start of this
season.
Mr. Dye dismissed the idea that football was too tough and stressed that the executive set high
standards of conduct and would not tolerate any larrikanism.
He said it was non-players who caused most of trouble and police were always alerted on these
occasions. He added that parents must accept some of the responsibility for not encouraging their
children to play sport. Teams which have withdrawn from their competitions are Seddon and North
Footscray, Under-18s and Footscray Socials A Reserves.
This has resulted in a completely new draw commencing this week for the Under-18 competition and
a revision of the A Reserves fixture.
The team with one bye will now play the team drawn to play F & Y Socials (this will avoid having byes
each week).

These games will be played on the home ground of the team with the bye. Match points and
percentage gained or lost in the first two rounds will remain unaltered.
Mr. Dye concluded by appealing to all the youth of the district not playing sport to get off their
bottoms and do something, rather than idling their time away in useless pur-suits.
*****
St. Albans were perhaps fortunate to gain the points over Parkside in opening game of the 1971
season. And it seems a joke when you put the difference of 2 points down to greater fitness winning
the game for the Saints in a very tight finish.
Parkside were far from disgraced and will improve as the year progresses.
*****
In the fifth round Parkside defeated Albion. Parkside going in harder and looking for a man were too
strong for Albion, who wilted under pressure.
Parkside are now playing power football and are going to be hard to beat from here on.
ladder after round 5 in 1971 season
Greater fitness, better teamwork and determined last quarter effort gave Braybrook victory over
Parkside in Saturdays match of the day. Its time Parks players realised that to win games and stay
at the top you MUST TRAIN and until ALL players do this they will not win important games.

Parkside firmly established themselves as a final four contender when they downed Spotswood by
one goal in the best game of the season so far.
Parksides steadiness in a tight finish earned them the points.
Parks had a slight edge in attack but struggled to counter Spotties relentless attack in the third
quarter.
Spotswood as usual, lacked pace early, but gradually wore Parks down.
A shot for goal by a Spottie player after the final siren saw the amazing sight of Parkside players
sitting on each others shoulders in the goal square to keep out the kick, with a Spottie player pushing
the jockeys off the shoulders.
It was a hilarious sight, of which the field umpire was unaware.
Question: Is this permissive under the rules of the game. Parkside 15.7 (97) d. Spotswood 13.13 (91)
Standing after 12 rounds in 1971
*****
Seddon crept two places closer to the four when they wore down Parkside in a high standard, hard
contested game on Saturday. Numerous experienced Parks players were found wanting for pace and
stamina the bussiness end of the game.

*****
Parkside boosted their final four hances and inflicted a severe blowto Albions hopes when they took
out Saturdays crucial game by three points.
Albion paid dearly for not concentartingon the ball.
Parkside being well beaten at half, came back and wore down the Braybrook team.
Parkside 16.11 d. Braybrook 14.14

Ladder after home-and-away season1971
In the A Grade semi-final, Parkside were too powerful, all over the ground, for West Footscray who
never gave up trying.
But with Parkside applying the pressure in the final quarter, they were never in danger of defeat.
Parksides perfomance was first class and they loom as the team to beat to win the flag.
Parkside turned in one of the most courageous efforts by an FDL side for many years when they
downed Braybrook by a mere one point in a thrilling game on Saturday.
Parkside now meets Spotswood in the A Grade grand final on Saturday at Yarraville.
Parkside 6.11 (47) d. Braybrook 6.10 (46)
Parkside best were: Darcy, Thopmson, Rees(2), Morgan, Murphy and Fraser.
*****

The Footscray District League season ended on a sensational note on Saturday when the A grade
premiership rested on a kick after the final siren.
Veteran Lindsay Murphy had the chance to snatch the premiership for Parkside with a kick for goal
from 45 yards out.
He missed and Spotswood took the flag by a mere three points. In a lightning opening Parkside
kicked 7.8 to 4.1 and were playing desperation football. Peter Meagher was a very creative forward
and making many opportunities for players around him.
Spottie appeared to be suffering from nervous tension and took a long time to settle down.
At half time, Parkside held a 15 point lead which was a good indication of the state of the game at
this stage.
After half time, it was noticeable that Parkside had slowed down considerably and Spottie who had
playing too lose on one back line, played closer with beneficial results.
At three-quarter time Parkside still held a seven point lead, and it was anybody's game .
A dour struggle was seen in the final quarter and the large crowd present was on their toes right to
the final siren.
It was a magnificent finish to one of the most open competitions for many years and was indicative
of the evenness of teams.
Congratulations to Spotswood and well done Parkside.
Spotswood 15.12 (102) d. Parkside 14.15 (99)

First Under Age Premiership
Premiers Under 16 -Season 1971
Back Row: L-R, J. Sfefou, J. De Bono, S. Bayard, P. Wilson, S. Sullivan, M. Smith, C. McDonald, T. Brett
(V. Captain)
Standing: J. Seex (Runner), P. Bacon, R. Rowe, C. Sullivan, B. Stent, J. Condos, K. Clark, P. Mathews,
N. OConnor (Manager)
Sitting: B. Rickards (Treas.), P. Cocks (President), M. Chetcuti, G. Seex, G. Bean (Coach), W. Davis
(Captain), G. Cooke, C. Cooke (Secretary), H. Pascarl (V. President)
Front: M. Seex (Mascot)
*****
For the A Grade, the 1971 season was the last successful for the entire 70s decade.
The 1972 season saw seven new coaches in A grade. The league changed the age groups in the
juniors and a record 90 teams were competing through various grades.
Nevertheless, a start of the 1972 season delivered a really good football.

In A Grade the Parkside North Footscray clash was a beauty with both sides turning on a first class
exhibition. The game resulted in a cliff-hanger with the result in doubt until the final siren.
North Footscray 19.12 d. Parkside 18.8
Parkside best: Tudor, Meagher, Bishop, Daglish and Beattie.
The round five brought a violent weekend all over the FDL grades. There were 14 reports, mainly for
abusive language and striking.
On the brighter side, Parkside player Mick Banes played his 200th with the club.
Ladder at the end of the 1972 season (A Grade and A Reserves)
Parksides A Reserves team played against Albion in the 1972 grand final.
Parkside were too strong and talented for Albion in A Reserves and these two sides had unique
distinction of playing a match of five different quarters
This eventuated when the timekeeper accidentally blew the siren when a melee had developed in
the second quarter. Before the mistake could be rectified, both sides and umpires had left the field
with 10 minutes plus time-on still to play.
Both sides had their half-time break, then returned to the field and played the reminder of the
second quarter.

After another brief break, they resumed their third quarter. Parkside deserved their win, because
they were more determined and played fast, play-on football to run right away Albion, whose form
was not a match on their previous weeks exhibition.
A Reserves 1972 grand final:
Parkside 12.10 (82) d. Albion 5.4 (34)
Parkside Football Club FDFL 1972 Reserves Premiers
Back Row: A. Grenfell (Trainer), B. Summers, J. Carr, K. Peachey, G. Fahey
Third Row: J. Lee (Official), T. Brett, M. Baines, J. Mason, T. Crean, G. Crick, M. Crick, P. Meagher
(Official), N. OConnor (Official), B. Grenfell (Trainer)
Second Row: C. Cook (Secretary), H. Pascarl (Vice President), J. Fraser (Time Keeper), N. Grenfell, J.
Engwerda (Vice Captain), P. Cox (President), B. Dalton (Capt. Coach), L. Murphy, B. Rickards (Tres.),
Mrs P. Whittey (Official)
Front Row: T. Mason (B. Umpire), P. Bishop, M. Russell, C. Sullivan, G. Bean, P. McGraw, S.
Davonport, R. Bentley
There was an unexpected incident occurred in July 1972, while FDL tribunal were in the office.
Five members of the Footscray District Football Leaguetribunal were locked inside a room on
Tuesday night of last week allegedly by a player who had just been suspended.

When the members of the tribunal, besides two umpires, two players and two players advocates
tried to leave the room they found the door had been bolted from the outside.
A FDL spokesman said yesterday: One of them had to risk injury to himself by climbing over a roof so
that he could get outside and open the door.
The tribunal was meeting in the harriers pavilion at Footscray Oval.
Some time elapsed before the door could be opened, the spokesman said. Whoever pushed home
the bolt outside the door can only be described as an idiotic no-hoper.
The spokesman said it was believed a suspended player could be the culprit, as he and his advocate
were the last people to leave the room before it was bolted from the outside.
The FDL also investigating allegations that a club official who was acting as timekeeper ran on to the
field during a junior FDL match on Saturday morning and struck players.
The Mail, July 1972
*****
Dale Murphy, a junior player with Parkside Football Club, plays his 100th game in the Under 15
Grand Final on Sunday.
Dale first played with Parkside when he was eight in the under 14 competition before the
introduction of the under 12 grade to which he later transferred.
Later, the Footscray District League changed to odd numbers and Dale played in the under 13 and
now under 15 grades. -
Dale is a student at Altona North High School and is a member of the school team.
In the summer, Dale is a batsman-wicketkeeper with the Footscray Colts.
Dale is the eldest son of Lindsay and Beryl Murphy, of Valerian Avenue, North Altona.
His father, Lindsay, is a former Williamstown player and past senior coach of Parkside.

He is present coach of Parkside's under-15 and under 13 teams.
Dale's younger brother, Glen, has played more than 70 games with Parkside and is playing in the
under 13 grand final on Sunday.
Parkside Football Club Under 11 (1972 Season)
Back Row: C. Neylon, D. Neylon, G. Considine, P. Cammerino, M. Cartligde, J. Greenwood, G. Morris,

D. Yoemans, P. Meagher (Official), I. Jones (Official), P. Filbin (Official)
Second Row: G. Wills, J. Evans, P. Nicholls, K. Green, R. Gale, J. Humphrey
Third Row: N. Rycroft, R. Jackson, G. Fenwick, G. Murphy (Vice Captain), L. Murphy (Coach), C. Knox
(Captain), C. Bendall, Z. Stefanovski, V. Mallia, B. Neylon (Official), J. Parson (Official)
Front Row: D. Considine, J. Nicholls, I. Fenwick, S. Neylon (Mascot), M. Mathews, D. Brown-Kerr, P.

Crowley

Parkside recorded their first victory for the 1973 season with a big win over Kingsville.
Kingsville, at home to Parkside, decided it would be a nice gesture to give the visitors first use of the
goals which Parkside took to its full advantage.
At 9 goals 5 points to 2 points Kingsville realised they too were allowed to kick the ball over the goal
umpires head, and so started what was to be a great comeback.
Early in the last quarter they drew to 4 goals, however Parkside, showing the finesse of finals side,
tightened and barraged the goals just when Kingy looked like catching them.
Despite sitting at the bottom of the ladder, Parkside was able to influence dynamics of competition
defeating the top teams during the 1973 season.
Parkside 9.12 d. Braybrook 5.9
*****
Parkside showed in A Grade that they are capable of upsetting many more sides before the season is
over.
Parkside are another side coming home well and are a side that could have a big bearing on the
composition of the four.
Parkside 41.20 d. F & Y Socials 4.2
As the season progressed, you could tell that the Parkside had improved considerably.
Parkside jolted West Footscrays finals hopes when they defeated them by 24 points and also gave
an indication that they are still a final four contender themselves.
Parkside 13.6 d. West Footscray 10.10
Parkside are making a determined bid for the finals, but may have left their run a little too late.
Parkside was surprisingly beaten by North Footscray on Saturday and has slipped behind in the race
for the Footscray District League A Grade final four.
The team finished in mid table that season.

Parkside Football Club - A Reserves 1973 Premiers
Back Row: R. Miller, G. Crick, B. Summers, B. DArcy, P. McGraw, G. Roth, P. Favaro, A. Bouekley, G.
Hibberd, P. Webster
Standing: J. Whitty (Comm.), A. Grenfell (Comm.), C. Cooke (Man), S. Davenport, G. Fenby, N.

Grenfell, P. Cocks (President), L. Murphy, R. Goosey, C. Sullivan, H. Pascarl (V. President), R. Turner
(Asst. Coach), J. Fraser (Time Keeper)
Seated: R. Sheppard, R. Cooke (Bound. Ump.), L. Daglish, B. Richards (Treasurer), J. Enwerda

(Dept.V.Capt.), B. Dalton (Captain and Coach), R. Bentley (Vice Capt.), B. Dolphin (Secretary), D.
Tudor, B. Grenfell (Trainer), G. Rees
Front: L. Magor, M. Russell, V. Enwerda (Mascot), C. Enwerda (Mascot), G. Summers, M. Enwerda

(Mascot), J. Carr, J. Galvin
Parkside Football Club Hobart Trip 1973

1974
On the eve of the FDFL 1974 season it was not secret anymore that clubs were prepared to pay the
players to secure their loyalty.
The magic word in Footscray District League circles is money. And some clubs could be led to the
Bankruptcy Court unless officials plant their feet firmly on the ground and start calling a spade a
spade.
Why officials and supporters repeatedly succumb to the demands of fringe senior players in favour of
the loyal rank and file men never ceases to amaze me.
The fringies have no club loyalty or team spirit and as soon as the money supply is cut they leave the
clubs for dead.
Well, enough griping (and a worthwhile whinge, too) and on to more football. How do I think the
teams will fare in 1974?
Ill tell you.
To be successful, a team must have good administration, loyalty, player dedication, discipline,
harmony and good members and supporters.
Parkside is stepped in tradition a great club. But what do players train on? To win premierships
you must be at peak fitness at the required time. Dedication is the name of the game. Minor senior
premierships mean little.
The Mail, April 3, 1974

*****
Maribyrnong River in flood - 16 May 1974
The Mail informed in May 1974 that, Parkside outclassed Deer Park to win by 113 points in a one-
sided affair at Parkside. It was a complete reversal of form for Parks who had suffered a defeat the
previous week at West.
*****
Parkside are once again the unpredictable as after a dismal performance against Albion up they
come and trounce Spotswood by 40 points.
The first quarter saw Parks waste many opportunities kicking 1-7.
However, once they straightened up it was shut the gate and they were never headed.
*****
Parkside 13.15 (93) d. St. Albans 9.16 (70)
Parkside goals: Punshon 4, ODonnell, Sullivan Jones 2, R. Tudor, D. Tudor, Crouch. Best: M. Crick
Jones, Punshon, Sullivan, Morgan, Dalglish.
*****

Parkside Football Club Open Age 1974 Season
Back Row (L-R): R. Miller, R. Punshon, C. Sullivan, B. Clark, K. Rodway (Comm.), L. Murphy (V.
President), R. Fraser, G. Cavanagh, R. Goosey, G. Crick
Standing: R. Turner (Comm.), G. Fenby, P. Filbin (Comm.), P. Bishop, J. Enwarda, N. Grenfell, B.

Rickards (Treas.), R. Salmon, G. Rees, P. Clark, H. Pascarl (V. President), N. OConnor (Comm.)
Seated: B. Neylon (Comm.), B. Dalton (Capt. and Coach Res.), P. ODonnell (Asst. Coach), B. Dolphin
(Secretary), B. Beattie (Capt. Coach), P. Cocks (President), F. Kenby (Dept. V. Capt.), R. Bentley
(V.Capt.Res.), A. Grenfell (Trainer)
Front Row: L. Magor, I. Jones, G. Turner (Mascot), M. Crick, M. Barber
An eight-goal second quarter burst squashed Parkside in the big Footscray District Football League
clash last Saturday.
Parkside frittered away many opportunities in the first term. They only scored three goals from 11
scoring shots.
Parkside rallied in the third quarter; however Seddon had too big a lead and scored a very good win.

*****
In the A Grade matches Parkside moved a big step closer to the finals with a win against West
Footscray. Trailing at the last change Parkside finished strongly to win by seven points.
Ladder after round 13
Parkside is looming as a threat for the A Grade premiership in the Footscray District League
following its great win over Albion on Saturday.
Parkside won the game with a brilliant seven goal burst in the third term which left Albion on
Saturday.
Ladder after home-and-away 1974 season
In the semi-final Parkside played against West Footscray.
West rattled on seven goals to one in a dazzling last performance against Parkside last week and has
regained early form.
West Footscray 14.12 (96) d. Parkside 10.11 (71)

Parkside Football Club - Under 11 Runners-Up 1974
Back Row: W. Taylor (Goal Ump.), A. Laffey, M. Dorgan, G. Mallia, D. Gunn, G. Sargent, A. Slattery,
M. Pellet, P. Millet, S. Taylor, D. Humphrey, W. Rickards, G. Allen, R. Salmon (Runner)
Middle Row: P. Filbin, A. Dorgan, C. Watt, D. Neylon (Timekeeper), G. Wills, T. Lockwood, S. Haney
Front Row: P. Clark (Boundary), K. Sargent, D. Allen, P. Clarke (Manager), D. Considine (C), B. Watt
(Coach), D. Brown-Kerr (Vice Capt.), P. Cocks (President), G. Milne, J. Dorgan (Trainer)
*****
1975
According to Kevin Hillier, The 1975 season saw the demise of the F & Y Socials from the
competition, but Braybrook continued to power on, and not only at senior level. Its juniors were also
building their own history. Boasting future stars like Doug Hawkins it proved to be an awesome
combination, as Parkside stalwart Neville OConnor recalls:
I remember we went up to Braybrook one day and playing was Doug Hawkins, Brian Wilson, Robert
Gronewagen and Donnie Wilson. There was four of them in the one under sixteen side and they
were some of the most brilliant junior football seen over the years.
In the 1975 season in round two, Parkside kept up to Braybrook until three quarter time, when
Braybrook scored 43 points to nil to win by 65 points.

Parkside defeated Kingsville in round three by 25 points. Parkside best players were: Morgan, Clark,
Sullivan, Rees, Crook and Watson.
Goals: Crook 4, ODonnell 3, Sullivan 2, Crouch, Rees, Engwerda and Punshin.
The Mail, June 11th 1975, warned the local football clubs that a club official was placed on a $200,
12 months good behaviour bond at Footscray Court last Thursday after facing a charge involving an
alleged illegal raffle. And magistrate Mr. J. Wallace told him: I know what goes on in football clubs.
Id be blind if I didnt; but I am bound by an act of Parliament.
Even the teenagers flocked to Highpoint West for opening on Tuesday morning there were
bargains in the jeans store, and youngsters were willing to do battle for a good pair of baggies.
Thousands of shoppers packed Highpoint West only minutes after the doors were opened at the
Rosamond Road complex on Tuesday morning. One elderly woman fell. It is believed she was
admitted to Western General Hospital.
In round eight, Parkside defeated Deer Park by 69 points.

*****
The Rousabout Restaurant in Nicholson Strret, Footscray, is almost booked out for tonights
exclusive appearance by American rhythm-and-blues star Bo Didley.
The club finished fourth at the end of the home and away season.
In the semi-final West Footscray rattled on seven goals to one in a dazzling last perfomance against
Parkside last week and has regained early formed.
West Footscray 14.12 (96) d. Parkside 10.11 (71)
Nevertheless, the club had a strong 1975 season.

Handicapped Parkside had a great year!
Four Four Parkside teams got in the finals despite the club's handicap it has not been able to play
on home ground (Henry Turner reserve) for three years and floods forced it off its temporary ground
(Footscray Park) this season.
Two sides the under 17s and under 15s won premierships. The flag winnere were coached by
former Williamstown players Lyndsay Murphy (under 15s) and Bobby Turner (under 17s). Parkside's
success story doesn't end there.
Two club members Herb Pascari and Brian Rickards became life governors of the Royal Children's
Hospital last week.
The club has raised more than $2000 for the hospital.
The club one of the oldest in the western suburbs looks to more success when improvements to
its home ground are finished.
The Mail, September 1975
Teachers at Footscray Technical School are prepared to take strike action over the takeover of the
school by Footscray Institute of Technology (Victoria University Footscray Park campus).
The schools parent-staff action committee was formed to oppose the takeover until the 800 pupil-
school is relocated in a new building.

1976
The 1976season started on fine note. Ideal conditions and a high standard of football highlighted the
opening round of the Footscray District Football League.
Parkside had to fight hard to defeat Deer Park in the opening match of the 1976 campaign.
Parkside player, Niel Grenfell played his 200th game for the club.
In the second round, Parkside failed against Braybrook after both sides were level at half time.
The club continued to struggle to field junior players.
*****
Geoff Shorthouse, the writer for The Mail, claimed in his article from June 1976, that the state of
football infrastructure in FDFL was in very poor conditions.
FDL grounds not up to scratch
This week's pause in the FDL competition gives me an opportunity to say something that needs
saying many of our grounds are just not up to scratch.
FDL is right at the heart of sport in the west and something should be done to lift the standard of
playing areas, accommodation and amenities. Looking around the grounds in the FDL, I feel many fail
to reach certain requirements.
Many are unfenced, changing facilities are often inadequate and coaches, timekeepers and
supporters are not always provided for.
In discussing those grounds, I am not having a shot at the clubs, just stating facts.

ALBION: Enclosed, and ranks as one of the top grounds in FDL.
ALTONA Nth.: No enclosed playing area. Becomes water logged during winter.
BRAYBROOK: Enclosed. Fair playing conditions, but visitors' changing room a bit too small.
CROSS ROADS: Enclosed. Another top ground with good amenities.
DEER PARK: Not enclosed. Playing surface very unsatisfactory, although improvement being made.
KINGSVILLE YMCA: Will be on their new ground next year
KINGSVILLE: Not fenced. No provision for to timekeepers and coaches. In wet weather ground tends
to become very muddy.
PARKSIDE: New ground next year. Needs fencing. Visitors changing rooms in poor conditions.
SEDDON: Not fenced. Good playing surface but again supporters left out in cold.
SPOTSWOOD: Enclosed. Another top ground, both for playing conditions and amenities.
SUNSHINE YCW: Enclosed. Another good ground.
ST. ALBANS: Enclosed. Good playing conditions, but rooms on small side.
ST. PAULS: Use school oval
SUNSHINE: A VFA ground
YARRAVILLE BOYS: Another VFA ground
WEST FOOTSCRAY: Partly enclosed. Can become a quagmire in wet conditions
Summing up, we have eight enclosed grounds in the whole FDFL and of those two are from VFA clubs
and other two belong to junior clubs.
That leaves only four of the 10 senior clubs with anything like what is required for top-class
conditions.
The Mail, 16 June 1976
*****
And after 12 rounds, in the Masseys Holden player award, Rod OConnor of Parkside, and Rod
Peterson, of St. Albans were in a commanding position. They had the same amount of points, having
six-point lead over Barry Priest of Braybrook.

Ladder after round 12 (1976 season)
*****
In round 17, Parkside with Rod OConnor bagging 8 goals, were too strong for St. Albans.
Parkside 19.15 d. St. Albans 12.15
Parkside ended the 1976 season with a negative record of six wins and twelve losses.
1977
Kevin Hillier brings some interesting facts to light about the 1977 season in his book.
1977 also saw a new presidentPeter Hollingstake over from Les Maxwell. If Peters history had
been known it might never have eventuated:
I often say to my mates, I am the only person suspended for life from the Footscray District League
who became the president of the League. I was banned for transferring to an association football
club without a clearance; it was silly at that time. I used to play up in the thirds at Footscray and
played a couple of seasons and I thought I might go a bit further. I was told by one of the selectors of
the day, We think we could probably use somebody else you know. Immediately the old president
of Parkside Football Club was standing alongside me saying, Here, sign this come and play with
Parkside, youre not going to play here. I read the signs and I wasnt going to play at Footscray so I
signed the form four.

But then I didnt do a thing about it, I didnt go down and practice with them (Parkside) or anything
like that. I was hesitant at that time because Parkside wasnt well liked in the Footscray District
League in those years. They were a pretty rough mob in those days. I didnt go down and practice
and they didnt make any great effort to lure me down there. Yarraville at that time was under
nineteens and so I was able to play a further underage year down there; so I played with the thirds
there for a year and then had a go at their seconds. In between Id been called to the Executive of the
Footscray District League in the old grandstand and asked what excuse did I have for signing a form
four and then deciding to go to the association without a clearance. Anyway, they suspended me for
life at that stage. I think I hold a pretty unique position.
*****
In the first round of the 1977 season, Parkside who had recruited well during that summer played
against Kingsville, who appeared to be the new glamor side of the FDL .
Kingsville was a better side defeating Parks by 41 points.
*****
Playing against Seddon in round three, after leading all day Parkside stopped in the last quarter and
allowed Seddon to take a way a sure victory.
*****
Parkside proved too strong for North Footscray in what appeared to be a scramble game at
Parkside. Very impressed with young Murphy on the wing.
Its his first year out of under 17s and he knows what to do with a ball when given an opportunity.
Parkside best against North Footscray were:
*****
Parkside took a further step towards the four with an eight point win over Altona City, who frittered
away many opportunities in the second quarter with inaccurate kicking.

On round seven, Parkside defeated Braybrook by 10 points. Parkside 9.9 (63) d. Braybrook 7.11 (53).
Big Parkside coach Rod OConnor again turned in a powerhouse perfomance .
In June 1977, FDL round nine was cancelled after members of the adverse weather committee found
most grounds unsafe.
For the second time in the 1977 season all FDFL games were cancelled because because of bad
weather and grounds.
In round 11, Parkside defeated Seddon. The match of the day, Seddon-Parkside, turned into a real
thriller with Parks winning with the last kick.
Seddon were a goal up at the start of time on after Dennis Thompson scorred. However, Parks
showed great courage to score two quick goals to win the game and consolidate their position in the
four. Ron Fraser was best together with G. Fiddian, B. Clark, D. Murphy, M. Hartley and S. Watson.

Round 15 brought another win for Parkside. This time Parks defeated Deer Park by 31 points. 13.14
to 9.7
In the last round of the 1977 season Parkside was too good for Albion beating them by 16 points.
Parkside 11.15 (81) d. Albion 11. 3 (69)
But this was just consolation win for Parks because Albion was better side in the semi-final clash
between those two teams at Yarraville Oval.
Albion won their way into the prelim. Final with a two point-win against Parkside at the weekend.
But for 5 seconds or an inch Parks would have won. A clearing dash by Albion went to their forward
line and Parkside centre Half-Back Fraser tried desperately to punch the ball back.
But it shaved the back of his fist and went over the pack to the ever dangerous Chris Kelly, who
turned, ran and kicked the winning goal as the siren sounded.
Parkside played themselves into a sure position just into the third quarter when they led 8.7 to 2.8
kicking with the wind. But they allowed Albion to score four goals against a stiff breeze and that was
their downfall .
The FDFL 1977 semi-final:
Albion 11.12.78 d. Parkside 10.16.76
*****
1978
The opening match of the 1978 season was reminiscent of the semi-final that Parkside and Albion
played at Yarraville Oval in September 1977.

Albion beat Parkside by 20 points. Parksides inaccuracy in shooting for goal they scored 22 points
contributed a great deal to their defeat.
Albion 15.12 (102) d. Parkside 10.22 (82)
Parkside best: Byrachevski, Daglish, Fiddian, Knox, Komp and Punshon.
*****
Parkside has an ingrained tradition and culture of diversity and inclusion which is based on a genuine
mateship and love for the game itself.

Christakis wins the ball and kicks it to teammate Tzarzaris . . . Xanthos to Albanis and then on to
Ktenidis and it's a goal.
Sounds like your typical European soccer match, doesn't it. Needless to say it's not Christakis,
Xanthos, Tzarzaris, Albanis and Ktednides all play footy for the Parkside under-13 (2) team.
They are just five of the 16 lads with foreign names who are on the- Under-13 team list.
"Those names are really a mouthful, especially when you're writing the match reports," said club
secretary Bruce Dolphin.
Not that he is complaining.
The kids have lost only one game and are at present on top of the ladder..
"It all started when a few Greek boys joined the club, and from there it just snowballed," said.
Bruce.
From there kids from other nationalities joined in so that now Parks have kids called Cohen and
Tifunovic rubbing shoulders on the field.
The Mail photographer managed to snap a picture of a few of them (above) ,at a recent training
session.
Pictured back row: Zeno Tzarzaris, Souli Ktenidis, Arthur Xanthos, Chris Kouteris.
Front row: Laurie Abela, Anthony Iduica, Raymond Di Maria, Michael Stelluto, Michael Albanis,
George Christakis.
Those "ethnic squad" members absent were:
Danny Cohen, Derek Philistin, Tommy Tassos, Victor Zammit, Stefan Zaharakis, Michael Trifunovic.
Coach of the side, ex-Footscray and Port Melbourne player Bernie Laffey, doesn't have any trouble
rolling his tongue around the names.
"He just calls them by their first names," said Bruce.
The Mail, June 14, 1978
Touring Artists - Melbourne, 1978 (Dylan, AC/DC, Bowie)

Parkside kept their slim hopes alive by defeating Sunshine YC by nine points, after round 8,
Parkside 11.19 (85) d. Sunshine YC 11.10 (76)
Parkside best were: Clark, Knox, Miller, Rees, Thompson, and Watson
Seventeen-year old Craig Knox could soon be playing senior football with Footscray if his recent
performances can be taken as guide.
Craig, 17 in March, was the only youngster from the western suburbs chosen in the Victorian under-
17 side.
This side played in the, Teal Cup -interstate carnival in Adelaide over the Queen's Birthday weekend.
Craig won selection in the team after being, named best and fairest in the Footscray District League's
combined under-17 team and also being a member of the metropolitan under-17 team.
Craig captains Parkside under-17's in the FDL is also football captain at Essendon Grammar where he
is a HSC student.
At 178cm (5 ft. 10 in.) and around 74 kg (11 st. 8 lb.), Craig plays mainly as a centreman and ruck-
rover, but was also tried as a wingman in the Victorian team.

Craig's father, Ron, is also president of Parkside Football Club, where Craig has played more than 100
games since starting with the under-13s.
The Knox family live in Smith Crescent, Footscray, 'and last weekend was a hectic one for Craig's
parents, Ron and Ailsa.
Ron and Ailsa returned on Friday from a six-week holiday in England and Europe. On hearing of
Craig's selection in the Victorian team, they rushed to Adelaide to watch him play on Saturday and
Sunday.
The Mail, June 14. 1978
Kelvin Templeton (1978)
At 21 hed become the youngest VFL player, and the first Footscray player, to kick magic ton (118
goals for the 1978 season).

Amongst the league's best and fairest players for the 1978 season were:
Gary Considine was Best and fairest (Under 17) and Daryl Hoy took second place (Under 11)
1979
Not only that these a hard working Footscray women who won tattslotto draw had a great reason
for celebration. In fact, Parkside Football had its reason to rejoice opening of clubs a new social
room.

Parkside Football Clubs new $34000 social room was officially opened last Thursday night by the
Mayor of Footscray, Cr Paul Holmes. They are at the Henry Turner Memorial Reserve, Footcsray.
The complex was built by J. & J. Donnar, with part-time assistance coming from Parkside stalwarts,
led by Brian Rickards, Neville OConnorand Bruce Dolphin.
Club president, Mr. Ron Knox, welcomed Cr. And Mrs. Holmes, also Crs. J. Bristow, E. Logan and F.
Maddern.
Others welcomed by Mr. Knox were FDL president, Mr. Peter Hollings and Mrs. Hollings; secretary,
Mr. John Huntington and his wife; treasurer, Mr. Ian Haskell; vice-president, Mr. Colin McDougall,
and registrar, Mr. Les Knights.
Cr. Holmes congratulated the club on its centre and praised it for its effort.
Executives of most senior clubs in the competition were also guests at the opening.
Mr. Knox said a cooperative had been formed to finance the venture and he thanked those who
showed confidence in the club by buying shares.
He Presented Cr. Holmes with a club medallion and invited him to become the club's No. 1 member
which Cr, Holmes accepted.
The Mail, April 1979
Club President Ron Knox is pictured presenting Cr Holmes (left) with the clubs No1
medallion

The clash between old rivals, Parkside and West Footscray was the highlight of the FDLs opening
round of the 1979 season.
After a slow first half Parkside were too strong for West Footscray, in the third quarter they added
7.2 to 1.3 changing a 17 point deficit to an 18 point lead. This trend continued during the last quarter
and Parks won by 27 points.
Parkside, riding high with the opening of the new social club rooms on Thursday night, started off
with a win over West Footscray.
The new rooms are a credit to the initiative of many of the people of the club.
Parkside 14.16-100 d. West Footscray 10.13-73
Best for Parkside were: Munro, Barber, Stanley, Clark, Fraser, and OConnor.
Goals: Stanley 5, Thompson 4, Crook 2, Rees 2, Knox.
*****
Sunshine YC finished full of running to tip out Parkside in the main F.D.L. game, in round six.
Parkside had led a low scoring encounter for most of the day in a strong, troublesome cross wind.
During the last quarter it was the accuracy of Sunshine YC that enabled them to hit the front and
hold on.
*****
In round eight, Parkside with former coach Rod Crook firing took on Kingsville whose form over past
weeks had indicated they would be hard to beat. And having trailed by four points at the half-time,
Parkside wrapped up the game by adding 5.4 to 1.4 in the third term.
Both sides fought hard in a torrid final term but Parkside was good enough to hold on and win by
two goals.
Nevertheless, after home and away season Parkside were sitting in eighth spot on the ladder.
A. Slattery won theBest and Fairest award for Under-15, collecting 37 votes.

Parkside Football Club Premiers Under 17 1979
Back Row: M. Pietrelli, S. Howells, I. James, N. Gregor, P. Cammerino, D. Browne-Kerr, L. Dalipis
2nd Row: C. Pietrelli (Runner), D. Lane, G. Brennan, N. Smith, J. Crouch (President), B. Rees, R.
Peroomal, T. Lockwood (Trainer), R. Simpson (Manager)
Front: P. Millett, A. Slattery, S. Devlyn (Capt.) R. Punshon (Coach), D. Mills, T. Lockwood, N. Rycroft,
A. Barber (Bound. Ump.)
Absent: A. Cantelmi, D. Considine, B. Du Bois, P. Nicholls, P. King, V. Mallia
Mad Max was born in 1979

Parkside Football Club - Under 15 Premiers 1979
Back Row (L-R): M. Rochford (Trainer), D. Devlyn, Z. Tzatzaris, A. Laffey, S. Ktenidis, L. Thompson, M.
Considine, S. Astuti, P. Bishop
Middle: B. Rickards (Team Manager), G. Turner (Boundary Umpire), G. Tsiflisis, W. Rickards, C.

Kouteris, J. Crouch (President), G. Mallia, D. Philistin, G. Christakis, G. Pearce (Runner)
Front: D. Hoy, A. Iudica, A. Slattery (Captain), K. Roadway (Coach), M. Dorgan, C. Bendelle, D. Peters
Mascot: M. Roadway
Hyperno on the outside of Salamader wins the 1979 Melbourne Cup

Mick Barber FDL Best & Fairest 1973 (U-15) Gary Knox FDL Best & Fairest 1974 (U-13)
D. Hoy - FDL Best & Fairest 1978 (U-11)
Parkside Football Club - Reserves Best & Fairest 1976 1979
(L-R ) J. Engwerda 1979, G. Summers 1976, D. Randall 1977, N. Grenfell 1978

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PARKSIDE FOOTBALL CLUB 1897/2017

COMPILED BY VLADIMIR BERA

ONCE A PARKSIDER, ALWAYS A PARKSIDER

Celebrating 120 years of the Parkside Football

The rich and long lasting existence of Parkside

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

HERB E. PASCARL Epitomized PARKSIDE FOOTBALL CLUB

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

In background, kids kicking the footy

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

In the words of Pascarl,

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Footscray Independent, 13 Jun 1908, Page 3

Punch (Melbourne) 20 August 1908, page 14

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Advertiser (Footscray) 2 May 1914, page 4

Australian First World War recruitment poster.

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

This is how local media covered reduced competition in 1915.

The result of first semi-final played last Saturday:

Williamstown Chronicle, 28 Aug 1915, Page 3

Todays matches are Parksides v Central Juniors, at Footscray Park.

Advertiser (Footscray, Vic.: 1914 - 1918) Sat 3 July 1915, Page 4

Williamstown and Footscray District Junior Football Association

Fixtures for today are:

Glenwoods v Seasiders, at Seddon;

Central Juniors v Parkrides, at North Williamstown;

Sunshine v Footscray Rovers, at Sunshine

Advertiser, 29 May 1915, Page 4

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

DISTRICT JUNIOR ASSOCIATION

Seasiders 7 goals, 11 behinds; Parksides 7 goals and 8 behinds.

Williamstown Chronicle, 11 Sep 1915, Page 3

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Construction and landscaping of Footscray Park, 1920

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Record, Sat 24 June, 1922, page 2

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Parkside Football Club 1922

The Magpie in the Moonlight

By John Shaw Neilson

Gold he has poured out and silver on this tent of mine:

He leaves in the last of moonlight his song without wine

Sable and snow-white the bird is, and he would define

Love in the leaves to the moon in his song without wine.

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

Old is the love in his music, and cool to the ear:

His joy is width of a sorrow, the weigh of a tear.

He fails not: the many loud singers he will outshine:

Death he will take into Love in his song without wine.

Parkside Football Club - Premiers 1923

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider

3rd Row: D. Johnstone (Coach), W. OShanassy, C. Huntigdon, A. Mather (Captain), C. Gathercole

Front Row: S. Bleaseby, F. Johnson, T. Wignell

Best Association Half Back

Sykes, a Tasmanian, learnt his football at Trinity Hill School Hobart.

Sporting Globe (Melbourne), 20 Aug 1930, Page 9

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider